ABILENE, Texas – The McMurry University men's soccer team played in front of its home fans for the first time this season and gave the crowd an exciting game, holding on for a 2-1 win over Texas A&M – San Antonio at Wilford Moore Stadium on Sunday.

The War Hawks (2-2) squared off with the new Jaguar program and took the early advantage on a goal by freshman Griffin Gayler on an assist from sophomore Kevin Serrano. The 23rd minute score was Gayler's first collegiate goal.

McMurry carried its slim lead into the half, but found a little more comfort in the second frame as sophomore Santiago Nunez scored on free kick pass from freshman Dylan Caudle in the 53rd minute to make it 2-0.

Texas A&M – San Antonio (0-1) stayed competitive the entire way and made it a game in the 75th minute with a skillful goal by Frederick Kumassi. The War Hawks would hold off the Jaguars in the end, earning their second straight win.

Freshman goalkeeper Orion Patterson had a strong game in net, making three top class saves to keep his team ahead. Despite one goal past his diving paw, Patterson and the defense buckled down and never trailed.

McMurry finished with 15 shots and seven shots on goal, while TAMUSA had 10 shots and five on goal. TAMUSA had more opportunities on the corner with five, but McMurry found more opportunities in play and on free kicks. The War Hawks had one corner on the day.

McMurry had four field players go the distance, including defenders Luis Lopez, Andrew Briseno, Preston Stal and Sean Cousins.

Serrano and Nunez each took four shots, with Nunez pressuring the opposition by putting three on frame. Six other players also took shots.

The War Hawks remain at home this weekend for its next match against non-conference opponent Huston Tillotson University. An early kickoff is set for 11 a.m.