OREM, Utah – The Westminster men's soccer team had a rough beginning to the new season as they were defeated 8-0 by Utah Valley in an exhibition match at Clyde Field on Wednesday night.
 
Westminster only attempted two shots against the NCAA Division I Wolverines. One came in the first half from Jacob Smith in the 31st minute. The second was in the 88th minute as the UVU keeper denied Hunter Kone.
 
Taylor Ruff finished with five saves for the Griffins, stopping the first five shots on goal by UVU before the home squad broke through with the first of two goals by Karson Payton in the 18th minute. Skyler Milne also scored twice for the home side.
 
The Griffins were whistled for 10 fouls to just six by the Wolverines. UVU had the game's only corner kick and they took 20 total shots.
 
Westminster has two more exhibition games on tap this weekend at Dumke Field. On Saturday, the Griffins host Carroll (Mont.) before a Sunday meeting with Great Falls (Mont.). Tickets for those games are available now at WestminsterGriffins.com/tickets.