Despite twice netting an equalizing goal, the Royals ran out of time against rival Bridgewater Wednesday night at home, dropping a 3-2 decision to the Eagles.

The men's second game-tying goal came in the 82nd minute, but Bridgewater (4-1-2) got the eventual game-winner with just 5:33 left to play.

Due to the unbalanced ODAC schedule started this year, the contest against BC doesn't count towards the conference standings and proved to be an odd mix of a "friendly" rivalry game. The Royals (5-2-2) play their first ODAC game next Tuesday at 2015 champion Washington and Lee.

The Eagles snuck in front of Wednesday's night clash a mere 1:57 in, with Thomas White scoring after a breakdown in EMU's defense.

Juan Luna (Mount Jackson, Va./Stonewall Jackson) continued his incredible play by finishing a ball from Dave Drafton (Alexandria, Va./Howard Gardner) in the 31st minute. It was the fifth goal over the past three games for the reigning ODAC Player of the Week, and his eighth of the season.

But Jacob Heiston went far post on an outside shot in the 60th minute to put the visitors back in front.

As time wasted away, the Royals, already with their share of late dramatics this season, kept their cool. Finally with 8:34 to go, Drafton sent in a cross from the right corner, finding senior Dylan Polley (Dexter, Mich./Dexter) on the weak side for a quick stick to lock it back up at 2-2.

Heiston then netted the game-winner on a free kick from the far left side.

Eastern Mennonite had their chances, perhaps none more promising than a free kick from the top of the box with two minutes to play. Luna fired a shot but it was blocked by the BC wall. He had won last Wednesday's game at Ferrum on a similar play with 1:35 to play.

The Royals had a 16-10 advantage in shots although Bridgewater had a 6-4 margin in shots on goal. Luna, Polley and Daniel Obour (Alexandria, Va./Mount Vernon) each took three shots. Drafton earned an assist on each of EMU's goals.

Keeper Matthew Overacker (Mount Crawford, Va./Turner Ashby) finished with three saves.

EMU heads to Lebanon Valley College this Saturday for another non-conference contest. Game time is 4:30pm.

Coach Roger Mast was proud of his men for twice earning equalizers: