COLUMBUS, Ind. – The IU Columbus men's soccer team showed resilience and grit on Thursday night, but a late surge wasn't enough to overcome visiting Oakland City, as the Crimson Pride fell 3–2 at the BCSC Soccer Complex.

Oakland City jumped ahead midway through the first half when Ross O'Brien found the net in the 30th minute. The visitors extended their advantage early in the second period as Yaw Frimpong scored the first of his two goals off an assist from Ethan John to make it 2–0 in the 55th minute.

The Crimson Pride wasted no time responding—just 40 seconds later, defender Trent Schenk buried a strike to cut the deficit to 2–1 and swing momentum back toward IU Columbus.

Frimpong struck again in the 70th minute, once more set up by John, to restore Oakland City's two-goal cushion. IU Columbus continued to press, and their persistence paid off late when Jonathan Lopez-Sanchez converted in the 86th minute, assisted by Anton Bezborodov, bringing the Crimson Pride back within one. Despite several late chances, the equalizer never came.

Both teams finished with 13 shots apiece in a tightly contested match. Goalkeeper Jacob Kasarda recorded three saves for IU Columbus, while Oakland City's Jacob Robinson stopped three of the five shots he faced.

The loss drops IU Columbus to 5-10-1 overall and 2-6 in conference play.

Next Up: IU Columbus will close out its 2025 season on Saturday (Nov. 1), hosting Kentucky Christian University for Senior Day at the BCSC Soccer Complex. Kick-off is scheduled for 4:30 PM.