COLUMBUS, Ohio – Transylvania suffered its first loss of the 2026 season Saturday afternoon, falling 2-1 to Capital University at Bernlohr Stadium. The Pioneers moved to 1-1 on the season, while Capital improved to 1-1.
The Pioneers controlled much of the offensive pressure in the opening half, outshooting Capital 9-3 and putting five attempts on goal. Cole Varela placed a pair of shots on frame, while Stone Work, McKay Wheatley and Kellen Crouch each tested Capital goalkeeper Noah Thomas. The two sides entered halftime scoreless.
Capital broke the scoreless tie in the 54th minute when Christian Monzalvo found the back of the net to give the Comets a 1-0 advantage.
Transylvania responded just over six minutes later. After a Capital foul inside the box, Varela converted the ensuing penalty kick in the 60th minute to even the match at 1-1. The goal was Varela's lone score on three shots on goal. The Pioneers continued to generate opportunities in the second half, including a Stephane Bebe attempt that struck the left post in the 68th minute. Capital eventually broke the deadlock in the 84th minute when Wassim Metatla scored to put the Comets back in front, 2-1.
Transylvania continued to press over the closing minutes, putting three more shots on goal and earning two corner kicks after Capital's go-ahead goal, but Thomas kept the Pioneers off the board to preserve the 2-1 final.
The Pioneers finished with a 20-9 advantage in shots, including an 11-3 advantage in shots on goal, and held a 7-2 edge in corner kicks. Gus Dickman led Transylvania with five shots, while Wheatley recorded four, including three on goal. Varela finished with three shots, placing all three on frame. Capital's Thomas recorded 10 saves.
Transylvania returns to action on Wednesday, September 9th, as they travel to Wilmington College for another non-conference match up.
Transylvania University is a proud member of NCAA Division III and the HCAC. To keep up to date with all of Transylvania Athletics, check out our website at transysports.com and follow @TransySports on Instagram.
