LONGVIEW, Texas – A late penalty kick goal by Miguel Esteban Jr. pulled McMurry within one goal of LeTourneau in men's soccer action on a rainy Thursday night in Longview, but the War Hawks would ultimately end up falling 2-1 in a tight contest.

The loss marks the first American Southwest Conference defeat for McMurry (5-4, 2-1), while LeTourneau (3-5-2, 1-2) opens a four game home stand with its first conference win.

Shots were fairly even most of the way, as LETU edged McMurry 15-12 in shots by the end. Both teams had nine shots at the half and finished with seven shots on goal each.

The War Hawks played from behind most of the way following a goal in the fifth minute by the Yellow Jackets. Later in the first half, the game was paused due to lightning.

Once action resumed, LETU clinged to its 1-0 lead, keeping an aggressive McMurry team out of the net. The Yellow Jackets looked to have its clincher in the 72nd minute, as Oliver Placencia scored to make it a 2-0 contest, but McMurry had an answer.

Drawing a foul with under three minutes remaining, the War Hawks sent Esteban Jr. into the box for a penalty kick, which sailed through to put McMurry within a goal. LETU ran out the time and held on for the win.

Senior Jesus Sanchez was McMurry's source of pressure on the day, shooting five times with four shots on frame. Esteban Jr. had three shots with one on target.

Playing all 90 minutes, freshman Mark Palaez faced the busiest night of his collegiate career with season highs in shots faced (15), shots on goal faced (7) and saves (5).

The War Hawks will look to remain above .500 in conference play on the road at East Texas Baptist on Saturday, Oct. 5. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.