IRVINE, Calif., – The Battlin' Bears secured a 1-0 victory over the Vanguard Lions in the second round of the 2018 NAIA Men's Soccer National Championship.

It was a defensive showdown throughout the entire match as both teams only allowed a combined four shots on goal. 

Rocky made the most of the limited opportunities. Gregor Watson took advantage of a free kick to knock in a header off of Sky Swenson in the 75th minute. The only goal of the match would prove enough as the Battlin' Bears pulled off the upset over the No. 9 ranked Lions.

Vanguard held an 11-8 shot advantage and 5-2 corner kick advantage over the Battlin' Bears.

Rocky goalkeeper Kristofer Wennin had one save with no goals allowed. Vanguard's Victor Negrete allowed one goal while pulling in a single save.

The Battlin' Bears advance to the quarterfinals tomorrow with a match against No. 3 ranked Central Methodist. That action will kick off at 7:30 MST / 6:30 PST.