WICHITA FALLS, Texas — In their last nonconference match before the start of GAC/MIAA competition, Southern Nazarene faced nationally-ranked Midwestern State, falling to the No. 6 Mustangs 3-0.
The Storm (2-3-1, 0-0 GAC/MIAA) went into this match with a previous 3-0 victory over Texas A&M International, but the offensive heat by the Mustangs (5-0, 0-0 LSC) took over the contest as their 3-0 victory added one more win to their now perfect 5-0 record.
Both teams battled hard throughout the first half, but neither squad would see a score for the majority of the first 45 minutes. The Mustangs ended the scoring drought with two back-to-back goals late in the half, resulting from a penalty kick and good offensive execution.
The Storm couldn't gain any momentum the rest of the half and went into halftime down 2-0 behind MSU.
Out of halftime, SNU took shot after shot to try and close the scoring gap, but each attack was off the mark.
MSU capitalized once more in the 60th minute, sending the ball to the back of the net for their third goal of the night, increasing their lead to 3-0.
The Storm could not find a rhythm to overcome their three-goal deficit, leaving MSU to earn the 3-0 win.
Rennato Ramos led the Storm offense with three shots and two shots on goal. Rinta Takagi finished with three shots and one shot on goal while Harei Maeda added three shots and one shot on goal.
Southern Nazarene will begin conference action Thursday, September 15th as they face Ouachita Baptist in Arkadelphia. Kick-off is scheduled for 4 p.m.
