Lansing Sun

Michigan State men's soccer team faced a setback on Friday night, losing 3-1 to Indiana at Bill Armstrong Stadium in Bloomington. This result brought the Spartans' overall record to 5-6-2 and their Big Ten record to 4-3. Meanwhile, Indiana improved its standing with an overall record of 6-3-5 and a league play record of 5-1-2.

The Hoosiers took the lead in the 22nd minute when Justin Weiss scored on a set piece, giving Indiana a 1-0 advantage. The score increased to 2-0 in the 40th minute after Michigan State was penalized for a handball in the box, allowing Patrick McDonald to successfully convert a penalty kick.

Michigan State managed to reduce the deficit before halftime. In the 42nd minute, Indiana was called for a handball in their box, and junior defender Cristiano Bruletti converted his first goal of the season from the penalty spot. It marked his first career penalty kick as well.

The first half concluded with Michigan State trailing by one goal, 2-1.

In the second half, Indiana extended their lead once more in the 51st minute with an unassisted long-distance goal by Samuel Sarver.

Despite being down by two goals again, Michigan State continued to push forward. Junior forward Jake Spadafora challenged IU goalkeeper JT Harms in the 63rd minute but was unable to score. Late attempts were also made by freshman forward Mohamed Saad and junior midfielder Jack Guggemos.

Throughout the match, Michigan State out-shot Indiana with a total of 12 shots compared to Indiana's nine. The Spartans also earned seven corner kicks while limiting Indiana to three.

Looking ahead, Michigan State will host No. 18 Michigan for the annual Battle for the Big Bear on Tuesday, October 22 at DeMartin Stadium at 7 p.m.