The Emery Spartan soccer squad has begun region play starting with a loss to Canyon View at home on Tuesday.  On Thursday they were on the road in Moab to face the Grand County Red Devils, in a very tight contest the Spartans fell 1-0 dropping to 2-10 overall and 0-2 in conference.

The Spartans have struggled of late sitting on a four game losing streak. Their last win was on Aug. 19 when they scorched San Juan 7-1.

In the match with Grand, Emery’s defense was on display as they held the Red Devils scoreless in the first half, taking a 0-0 score into the locker room. In the second half , Grand found the back of the net and held on for the 1-0 win.

Emery is sitting at No. 20 in the RPI from the Utah High School Activities Association. The RPI will continue to be updated throughout the remainder of the season, until Oct. 6, when the bracket for the State Championship Tournament will be revealed.

Up next for the Spartans, another region match-up with the 5-4 Richfield Wildcats. Richfield is sitting at No. 11 in the RPI. Last season the two teams split the season series, with each team winning on their home field.

They will then take the rest of the week off to prepare for their next home game against the Carbon Dinos on Tuesday Sept. 14. Game time is set for 4 p.m..