CLAREMORE, Okla. - The Hillcats competed in its home opener Saturday afternoon at Soldier Field against No. 24 McKendree Bearcats losing 4-2.

In the first half, the Bearcats drew first blood and scored three minutes into the game. But the Hillcats responded when Marcos Vasallo put one into the back of the net thanks to an assist from Erik Hjertsson. 

However, the Bearcats would score in the 33rd minute to take a 2-1 lead heading into the half. Both teams were limited on offense, as each team only recorded three shots on goal in the first half. 

In the second half, the Bearcats added two goals in the 59th and 61st minute to take a 4-1 lead.

Alex Laing cut the deficit to two goals in the 77th minute to make the score 4-2. The Hillcats nearly scored in the 88th minute, but the goal was called offside and ultimately ended the contest. Both teams tallied nine shots during the entire contest.

The Hillcats return to the pitch on Thursday, Sept. 12th at 2 p.m. when they host No. 8 Midwestern State University at Soldier Field.