The MSU men's soccer team ended the Big Ten portion of its schedule on Sunday with a 2-1 loss to Wisconsin.
The Spartans (8-6-1 overall, 2-4-0 Big Ten) entered the game winless in their last two games.
They have two games remaining on their regular season schedule before the Big Ten Tournament.
MSU head coach Joe Baum said his team did not make the decisive play to win the game.
"You saw a great college soccer game," Baum said. "Both teams wanted to win, and neither team was playing conservatively. We didn't want a tie, and their kid came down and made a play to win the game."
The Badgers (8-8-0, 2-3-0) got on the board early when forward Nick Van Sicklen scored in the sixth minute, making the score 1-0. Midfielder Noah Goerlitz received an assist on the goal.
The Spartans finally scored in the 67th minute of the second half when freshman forward Kenzo Webster put the ball in the back of the net. Assists were given to senior forward John Minagawa-Webster and freshman defenseman Ryan Gochneaur.
More than 10 minutes later, Van Sicklen struck again as he netted the unassisted game winner.
"The effort was there all game," Baum said.
"We had our chances late, but we just couldn't capitalize on any of them, and they made the best of their opportunities."
The Spartans were led in shots by Minagawa-Webster who took five, while Van Sicklen also led the Badgers with five. The Spartans out shot the Badgers 16-12.
Both teams won three corner kicks on the day.
The second half of the game became much more physical as both teams had 17 fouls each with four yellow cards being handed out as well. Three of the cards went to the Badgers with the fourth going to the Spartans.
Sophomore goalkeeper Jason Tillman made four saves for the Spartans, while the Badgers goalkeeper Eric Hanson also made four saves. Each team was credited with a team save.
The Spartans travel to Notre Dame on Tuesday before coming home for their final game on Friday against Valparaiso.
"This team can play with anybody," Baum said. "We have been a bit unfortunate, but we just need to keep our heads up and the good results will come."
"I have never questioned this teams effort. I think sometimes the team tries too hard. If we keep up the effort, though, the outcomes are going to start to go our way."
