Monroe Boys' varsity soccer team played to a 1-1 draw against Bedford in the first ever night game at Bunkelman Field on Thursday night. The team began on the front foot and kept Bedford in their own half for much of the opening 20 minutes. Brian Palmer opened the scoring when he outran the defense after a ball from Austin Dunn and neatly placed the ball into the far corner. Monroe continued to carry the initiative until half time but did not add to the scoreline. HT 1-0

Monroe had the lions share of  possession in the second period and created some dangerous situations but the final ball and cross was disappointing at times. Against the run of play Bedford equalized from a well placed free kick that created some confusion in the box and the ball was turned over the line. Monroe rallied and, apart from a couple of counterattacks by the visitors, continued to push forward and looked the more likely team to score.

The Trojans thought they had snatched a late winner when Talen Swinkey curled in a free kick around the defensive wall with 30 seconds left on the clock but the kick was ordered to be retaken by the referee. The second attempt also beat the keeper but hit the underside of the crossbar and bounced out. Bedford scrambled the ball away as time expired. Very entertaining game and one of the best performances of the season by the Trojan soccer team. Next game Monroe Invitational vs Ypsilanti Saturday September 24 KO 11:30 at Bunkelman Field.