ABILENE, Texas – The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor men's soccer team earned a 3-2 decision over Hardin-Simmons University Thursday evening in Abilene. The win improved the Cru to 8-3-2 overall and 6-0 in American Southwest Conference action while the Cowboys fell to 5-5-4 overall and 3-1-1 in league play.
 
Xjavier Martinez gave the Cru an early lead, scoring in the third minute off an assist from Karsen Macias. UMHB held the one-goal margin for the duration of the first half. Hardin-Simmons outshot the Cru 14-6 in the frame but UMHB's defense held on as the Cru made five saves in the half to keep the one-goal lead.
 
Hardin-Simmons opened the second half like the Cru's first half, scoring in the 49^th minute with a goal from JJ Sissen. UMHB responded in the 58^th minute with a goal from Mason Munoz before Alex Bethke netted another goal in the 62^nd minute. Hardin-Simmons was able to add one more goal in the 81^st minute but the Crusader defense held on, securing the 3-2 win.
 
UMHB totaled 11 shots in the contest, led by Alex Bethke and Ethan Buchanan with three each. Hardin-Simmons totaled 23 shots in the match with 10 on frame. Hayden Owens earned the win for the Cru, making seven saves with two goals allowed while Carson Null took the loss for the Cowboys.
 
UMHB returns to action on Saturday, October 21^st in a 7:30 p.m. match at McMurry University in Abilene. The Cru returns to home action on Saturday, October 28^th before embarking in postseason action.