The wet soggy ground beneath goalie Dan Hartigan’s feet just became a little softer as a 1-0 deficit was in jeopardy to become doubled, as a penalty kick had just been inforced.

Previously beating the Bentonville Tigers (3-4-1) earlier in the season, the Har-Ber Wildcats (5-4-2) were riding high, heading north for another bout with the Tigers March 29.

The game started brutally quick for the less fortunate Har-Ber defense, as they gave up the opening goal in only the sixth minute of play.  The defense broke down and Bentonville’s Jack O’Connor slipped through for the quick strike.

“We didn’t play very well, and in this league that is enough to get you beat,” said Hartigan, a sophomore.

Har-Ber’s halftime hole of one, quickly became two as another Har-Ber defensive mistake cost them.  A penalty forced the burden on Hartigan as he attempted to keep the score one-nil.

Unfortunately the outcome of the penalty kick did not favor the Wildcats, and neither did the final score.

Har-Ber returns to the pit April 1 versus the conference leading Southside Rebels in Fort Smith.

“Hopefully we bounce back and play much better Friday,” said Hartigan, who was eager to bounce back after giving up two goals.