GALESBURG, Illinois - The Prairie Fire men's soccer team dropped a close 2-0 match to the University of Dubuque on Friday evening.

Knox and the Spartans played to a scoreless tie through the first half, but Dubuque broke through early in the second half to take the lead.

The Spartans added another goal on a second chance shot in the 68th minute.

Dubuque outshot the Prairie Fire 13-6 overall, including a 10-3 edge in shots on goal.

"We played very well in the first half," said head coach Kevwe Akpore. "Dubuque broke through early in the second half, but we fought hard to keep the game in reach. We had a few mistakes in the second half and Dubuque took advantage. They are a good team and they came to play. We are not quite playing to our potential yet, but we know we can play with anyone."

Knox hosts another tough non-conference opponent on September 4 as they welcome the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.