ABILENE, Texas – McMurry University's men's soccer team saw a strong effort go by the wayside in a 1-0 loss at the hands of St. Mary's University in a steady downpour at Edward's Field. The setback dropped the War Hawks to 2-6 overall, while the Rattlers improved to 1-4-1.

SMU had a decided advantage in shot attempts in the scoreless first half – 8-2 – but some strong defense led by Mike Moon, Sam Black and Gustavo Mendoza and Tyler Tarango permitted St. Mary's just one shot directly on goal in the opening segment.

Conversely, McMurry put two shots on goal before the intermission.

In the second period, McMurry was still out-shot overall, but by a lesser margin of nine to five. Meanwhile, the defense continued to rattle the Rattlers.

McM goalkeeper Neil O'Sullivan registered four big saves in the game to contribute to St. Mary's frustrations.

However, the Rattlers finally booked what would prove to be the difference in the game when Jack Wolf right-footed a 40-yard shot into the lower third to make it 1-0 in the 54th minute of play.

McMurry had a couple of opportunities in the waning minutes of the contest, but could not convert.

“We were right there with them,” McM head coach Paul Tate said. “The defense didn't really give them any chances.”

The War Hawks will return to action on Saturday at 3 p.m. at home, hosting Texas A&M International University.