Nick Mentesana

A free kick goal just over 12 minutes into play was all that Bellarmine needed Sunday to record a 1-0 victory over the Miners at the UMR Soccer Field.

The Miners were charged with a foul just outside the box nearly 12 minutes into play and Bellarmine's Ross Hopkins drilled the ensuing free kick past MIner goalkeeper Mike McNamee for what turned out to be the only goal of the contest.

UMR, which finished even with Bellarmine in the shots department with 11 apiece, had its share of opportunities in the second half when it had the wind at its backs. UMR got two corner kick chances and had three shots on net, but all of those chances were turned away by goalkeeper Justin Welply.

The Miners played the final 32 minutes of the game down a man after a red card was issued.

McNamee finished with three saves on the afternoon for the Miners, who fell to 3-6 overall and 0-6 in GLVC play. Bellarmine improved to 8-3 and 4-1 in conference play.

UMR will play at Christian Brothers Friday night before returning home for a Sunday afternoon contest against longtime rival Truman State.