ST. LOUIS, Mo. -- The match was about as chippy as one can get.

Physicality was front and center Sunday afternoon as the UMSL Tritons took to Field 8 at Lou Fusz Soccer Complex, as they defeated the Lindenwood Lions, 3-2.

In the first half, the Tritons netted two goals, creating the much-needed separation needed for a tough, physical win.

At the 17:01 mark, Garrett Bass converted the penalty kick for the Tritons.

Then, Leo Sowa drilled his shot low and inside the left post with approximately eight minutes remaining in the opening half.

"It was a very good character win for the team playing a man down in the second half. Lindenwood is a cross-town rival and the play did get intense. Our focus moves to Southern Indiana, which is a good offensive team. The team is playing well, but we are still looking to put two good halves together," head coach Dan King said.

The Lions' first score came 12:34 into the second half when Gabriel Miranda found the net.

The Tritons needed one more to all but ensure a GLVC victory.

Enter Drew Schenk, who did not disappoint, as his shot made its way inside the right post, giving the Tritons the 2-score lead, but not for very long.

With seven minutes remaining, Lions' Nick Boyles's low left shot curled its way to the net.

Tempers flared throughout the second half, commenting on how badly each team needed -- and wanted -- the win.

Bodies defied physics, contorting in mid-air, and a melee even erupted after the final whistle.

Cooler heads prevailed as both teams intervened, and the Tritons headed to their corner to celebrate.

For the Tritons: they committed seven total shots, four of which were on goal.

Goalkeeper Austin Reis, who was hassled throughout the second half by the Lions players, finished with five saves.

Sawyer Hardy was given the lone red card and will miss the next contest.

The Tritons host Southern Indiana Friday at 7:30 p.m.