GALESBURG, Ill. – The Concordia University Wisconsin Falcons opened the 2026 campaign on the road Tuesday, traveling to Galesburg, Illinois, to take on the Knox College Prairie Fire. The matchup marked the first meeting between the two programs since September 13, 2015, when Concordia and Knox played to a 0-0 draw.
Knox came out strong in the opening half, putting pressure on the Falcons early and finding the back of the net twice. The Prairie Fire struck in the fifth minute to take an early 1-0 advantage before adding another goal in the 14th minute to extend the lead to 2-0.
Despite the early deficit, Concordia continued to battle and created several opportunities offensively. The Falcons came out of halftime with renewed energy and quickly found a way to cut into the Prairie Fire lead.
Just five minutes into the second half, Concordia got on the scoreboard in the 45th minute. Ronan Kessler found the back of the net to bring the Falcons within one, with Nolan Hessenthaler providing the assist. The goal gave Concordia momentum as it looked to even the contest.
The Falcons continued to push forward following Kessler's goal, generating offensive pressure and creating additional scoring opportunities. However, Knox responded in the 55th minute, adding its third goal of the afternoon to regain a two-goal advantage at 3-1.
Concordia continued to fight through the final minutes, but the Falcons were unable to find another goal as Knox secured the season-opening victory.
The Falcons finished the contest with 15 total shots, putting 11 shots on goal. Concordia's 11 shots on target demonstrated its ability to generate opportunities throughout the match despite facing the two-goal deficit.
Kessler led the Falcons with the team's lone goal, while Hessenthaler recorded the assist.
The 2026 campaign continues for Concordia as the Falcons look to bounce back at Carroll Saturday 5. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.
