HOLLAND, Mich. – The Adrian College men's soccer team opened the 2026 season with a 2-0 loss to Hope College at Van Andel Soccer Stadium on Tuesday afternoon. Although both programs compete in the MIAA, the match was classified as a nonconference contest.
Hope opened the scoring in the 33rd minute to take a 1-0 advantage. Kyle Peterson produced Adrian's best opportunity of the opening half with a shot on goal in the 31st minute, while Nikolai Zacharko added another attempt in the 42nd minute.
Hope extended its lead in the 53rd minute to make it a 2-0 match. Nick Miller placed Adrian's second shot on goal in the 62nd minute, but the Bulldogs were unable to cut into the deficit.
Adrian goalkeeper Eli Sizemore turned in a strong performance with 14 saves, including 10 during the second half. The Bulldogs were also credited with a team save and finished with 15 total saves.
Hope held a 33-3 advantage in shots and placed 17 attempts on goal. Peterson and Miller accounted for Adrian's two shots on goal, while Zacharko recorded the Bulldogs' other attempt.
Adrian will return to action on Sunday, Sept. 6 when the Bulldogs host DePauw University at Docking Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.
