ST. BONIFACIUS, Minn. — The Hamline University men's soccer team defeated Crown with a 3-1 victory on Wednesday at Old National Bank Stadium, bolstered by two first-half goals.

The Pipers improve to 4-0-1, while the Polars fall to 0-3-2.

Hamline 3, Crown 1

Hamline's offense dominated the first half, recording ten shots to the Polars' two. The Pipers capitalized on their opportunities with Beniam Makonnen opening the scoring in the 28th minute, assisted by Drew Axel. Ashton Frost extended the lead to two-nil in the 36th minute with an assist from Edgar Flores Vasquez. Alec Setterberg made two crucial saves to maintain the shutout going into halftime. 

The Pipers secured a decisive 3-1 victory with a critical goal by Sylvester Doe in the 84th minute sealing the win. They held their ground defensively, as Setterberg made key saves, including two from Omar Navarro. Despite a goal from Jared Hernandez of the Polars in the 65th minute, Hamline maintained control to close out the match.

Hamline outshot Crown 13-6.

Setterberg posted five saves in goal for Hamline. Frost scored one goal, which was the game-winner. Axel and Flores Vasquez also contributed with assists, helping to set up scoring opportunities.

Hernandez was a standout for Crown, scoring the team's lone goal and registering one shot on goal. Leo Roque, the primary goalkeeper, played the full 90 minutes and made two critical saves, facing 13 shots in total. Navarro led the team in shooting attempts with two shots, both on target, while Joaquin Silva and Gael Miteo each recorded a shot on goal, demonstrating offensive activity despite the lack of scoring support.

The Pipers will host Coe at Pat Paterson Field on Friday, September 12 at 4 p.m.