Southern Nazarene University Athletics

CLAREMORE, Okla. - Southern Nazarene opened its 2026 season on Thursday afternoon, battling Maryville before falling 2-0 in Claremore.

 The Saints (1-0-0, 0-0-0 GLVC) struck first in the 25th minute when Yayo Mutombo found the back of the net off an assist from Jose Vilela to make it 1-0. Southern Nazarene (0-1-0, 0-0-0 GAC) answered quickly with looks of its own, generating three shots in the opening half to Maryville's two, but couldn't find the equalizer before the break.

The teams went into halftime with Maryville holding the slim 1-0 advantage.

The Crimson Storm came out pressing after the break, creating chances early while the defense held strong. SNU finished the afternoon with 9 total shots, putting 2 on frame.

Maryville doubled its lead late in the 77th minute as Ahmed Suljagic converted off a feed from Jacob Lusignan. Southern Nazarene continued to push down the stretch, putting together a 6-shot second half and forcing the Saints' keeper into a pair of saves, but the Saints held on for the 2-0 decision.

Despite the result, SNU held Maryville to just 5 shots on goal while recording 3 saves on the defensive end. The match was a physical one, with the Saints whistled for 14 fouls and the Crimson Storm for 10.

Next Up

Southern Nazarene will continue its non-conference slate on the road this Saturday, August 29th at 12:30 pm in Claremore as they take on McKendree.