CARY, N.C. — The Averett University men's soccer team dropped a hard fought 2-0 decision to N.C. Wesleyan College on Friday in the USA South Conference semifinal hosted a Wakemed Soccer Park.

N.C. Wesleyan (9-7-2) struck for the game-winning goal in the 27th minute to take a 1-0 advantage into the break.

Averett (9-7-2) had an opportunity to tie the game 1-1 in the opening half, but senior Johnny Kummander's attempt was turned away by the Battling Bishops.

The Battling Bishops added an insurance goal in the 70th minute to extend their advantage to 2-0 as Averett was unable to get on the board in the final minutes. 

N.C. Wesleyan finished that afternoon with an 11-7 shot advantage and a 9-6 shot on goal margin. 

Friday's conference clash featured eight yellow cards and 23 fouls as both teams set an aggressive pace early on. 

The Battling Bishops advance to take on Covenant College in the conference championship at 4 p.m. on Saturday. With the loss the Cougars conclude their season and time in the USA South as they move to the Old Dominion Athletic Conference next season.