ROYAL CITY — The Knights of Royal High School took on the Chelan Goats Thursday night at David Nielsen Memorial Field.

The Knights fought hard throughout the non-conference match, but the Goats came away with the 2-1 victory.

The soccer action on the pitch was fast-paced with numerous changes of possession throughout.

The first score of the contest came in the 35th minute when Chelan’s Jose Garcia fielded a pass and headed the ball past Royal senior goalie Carlos Barajas into the back of the net. Chelan’s first goal gave the Goats a 1-0 lead at halftime.

Chelan took a 2-0 lead in the 57th minute of the second half when Julio Juarez slipped the ball past Barajas.

Royal denied Chelan the shut-out victory with a goal from Jesus Ceja. Ceja’s goal came on an assist from Luis De La Rosa and helped the Knights pull within 2-1.

Despite a valiant effort from the Knights, Royal was short-handed because of injuries. Royal head coach Jens Jensen rested some of his players in preparation for Saturday’s South Central Athletic Conference opener with rival Warden.

The Knights have played eight non-conference games, going 5-2-1 and Jensen said his team is prepared for the Cougars.

“Up until now they all have been non-league games,” he said. “I think the boys are ready for (Warden).”