MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.--  North Central University Men's Soccer kept the defending Upper Midwest Athletic Conference champion at bay for the first 45 minutes. But three second half goals gave The College of St. Scholastica a 3-0 road win on Thursday night at the Coon Rapids Soccer Complex.

North Central (2-4-1, 1-2) was able to keep the Saints (6-2, 4-0) dangerous attack off the score board through the first half. The Rams also produced just enough attack of their own to keep the St. Scholastica defense honest and hold the match scoreless through the interval.

In the second half the Saints depth and scoring threats were able to wear down the Rams. CSS earned a 29-2 shot advantage and those shots produced three well-earned goals in the 51st, 55th, and 83rd minute.

The first half on Thursday was the first time the Saints had been held scoreless for a half in conference play this season.

North Central will return to action on Saturday with a road conference match. NCU will travel to Northland College (Ashland, Wis.) for a 2 p.m. kickoff in Ashland.