PRESCOTT, Ariz. – Hope International men's soccer dropped a 3-1 decision to Embry-Riddle on Thursday at Varsity Field.

The Royals fell to 3-4-5 overall and 2-3-2 in the GSAC. The Eagles moved to 4-3-3 and 3-1-2 in conference action.

Julian Albanil, Cesar Battistini and Nitai Bental notched goals for ERAU. The Golden Eagles jumped out to a 2-0 lead with goals in the 11th and 36th minutes.

HIU sliced the deficit in half as Rafa Gonzalez posted a 65th minute goal off an assist from Gio Marin. It was the first goal of the season for Gonzalez.

The Royals pushed for the equalizer, getting shots from Brayden Moore, Gonzalez and Marin over the next several minutes. But the Eagle defense stiffened – and Nitai Bental added an insurance goal in the 84th minute to provide the home side a 3-1 lead.

HIU was unable to generate any further offensive opportunities for the final 17 minutes of the match, but finished the contest with a 13-9 shots advantage.

Christian Hernandez led the Royals with three shots.

Berlin Torres made four saves in net for the Royals. ERAU netminder Alex Bissett had five saves for the Eagles.

HIU continues its Arizona roadtrip on Saturday with an 11:30 a.m. contest against OUAZ.