ABILENE, TEXAS - After spotting their guests a big lead in the first half, McMurry and its goalie decided enough was enough Saturday, Sept. 30.

The War Hawks fell 3-0 to crosstown rival Hardin-Simmons University in part two of the Abilene Derby at Wilford Moore Stadium. The scoreless second half was in part due to freshman Brandon Walker (Royse City, Texas) denying the visitors at least five shots into the net. He was officially credited with three saves.

McMurry had six shots and two corner kicks, as sophomore forward Brennan Anderson (Wichita Falls, Texas), freshman defender Christian Orozco (El Paso, Texas) and junior forward Herbie Martinez (League City, Texas) each recorded a shot on frame. The game was marred by 17 total fouls.

"We had three moments where we lacked concentration and they scored three goals on throw-ins," head coach Marquise Muse said. "In the second half, we played much better, and we gave a better showing of our team's ability."

He said he sees a silver lining as the War Hawks push forward in the 2023 schedule.

"We have to learn from our mistakes and prepare for our next conference game," he said.

The loss drops McMurry to 1-5-2. Muse's squad hits the road this week for games at East Texas Baptist University on Oct. 5 and LeTourneau University on Oct. 7. They will be home Oct. 12 when Howard Payne University comes to town. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m.