What was supposed to be a routine exhibition match to practice for the fall season turned into a more intense game than expected. Junior Brandon Barklage and a Washington University in St. Louis opponent were ejected from the game for fighting.

The Saint Louis University men’s soccer team tied Wash. U., 1-1, in spring exhibition play Wednesday, April 23.

“We tried to put the first game behind us, but we knew going in that it would be a scrappy and physical game,” sophomore midfielder Tim Ream said. “We also know that the game against [Wash. U.] was going to be a little more laid back. Because of that, we knew that we could settle in against them and use our skills to our advantage.”

Ream said the team started out slow against Wash. U.

“We were a bit hesitant to start, whether it was because of the injuries or the new game,” Ream said. “I think that definitely hurt us in the long run.”

Despite coming out flat, both teams were able to execute offensively in the first half, with each scoring its lone goal of the match. The first score was from the Billikens by sophomore forward Jimmy Holmes. The Bills had several chances to take the lead throughout the game, including a strong shot by junior defender Calum Angus that was deflected by Wash. U.’s goalkeeper.

The Bills also had several corner kicks throughout the game, including one headed toward the goal by freshman defender Casey Herd. Late in the second half, Angus also attempted a bicycle kick in front of the goal that went just wide of the net.

The team was not excited about the tie to its cross-town rival. The game did not impact the team’s standings, but Ream said the members still wanted to win.

“Most people could just dismiss this as a spring game and an exhibition game that means nothing,” Ream said.

“We go into every game wanting to win. The fact that it was against [Wash. U.] just made us want to win all the more.”

Despite the disappointing result, Ream said that the team is in a great position for the fall season.

“Certainly our main weakness in that game was finishing on chances,” Ream said. “We had a few great opportunities that could have been great goals.

“The important thing is that we were creating those opportunities. I think that this game revealed our strengths and definitely puts us at a great starting point for the fall season.”