DECORAH, Iowa — A soccer game that featured strong regional opponents saw six goals between Luther and Gustavus Adolphus on Friday night. The Norse held a 2-1 advantage at halftime before the Gusties scored three unanswered goals to win the game 4-2. Luther falls to 3-2 overall. 

The Luther men's soccer team held a 2-1 advantage over Gustavus Adolphus at halftime but the Gusties responded scoring three goals in the second half to defeat the Norse 4-2. Luther falls to 3-2 overall.

The first half began with a tense back-and-forth as Luther sought to establish control over Gustavus Adolphus. Despite an early goal from Ryder Tomlinson in the 11th minute Luther responded with determination. Paulo Mercante sent the cross in where Will Elias headed it into the back of the net to tie the game at 1-1 in the 30th minute. Three minutes later, Paul Menge capitalized on a pass from Francesco Mungari to give the Norse a 2-1 advantage heading into the break.

In the second half, Joe Flory of the Gusties scored twice, with goals in the 54th and 77th minutes, and Kieran Mahan added another in the 79th minute. Luther's Mungari and Menge each had attempts to narrow the gap late, but saves by Quinton Geddes maintained the Gusties' lead.

Elias scored his first goal of the season. Mercante tallied his first career assist. Menge now leads the team with three goals. 

Luther out shot Gustavus 17-9 and both teams had six shots on goal. 

The Gusties improved to 4-1-0 overall with the win.

Luther will travel to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville on Friday, Sept. 19. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. in Platteville, Wis.