The University of the Southwest men's soccer team took on Oklahoma Panhandle State at home on Saturday. The Mustangs were able to get the offense going in this contest after struggling to score in the first four games of the season. The Mustangs got out to a 1-0 lead in the first half on a goal by Matthew Alvarado that was assisted by Angel Marban. They were able to take that lead into the half as they continued the stout defense they've been playing as of late. In the second half, OPSU was able to tie the score at one but USW answered back immediately with a goal of their own. The goal was scored by Angel Marban and assisted by Gerardo Tenorio. OPSU cranked up the offensive pressure due to the deficit and was able to tie the game at 2 in the 75^th minute. The game would remain scoreless for the remainder of regulation, two 10-minute overtime periods, and end in a tie. 
 
After the performance Head Coach Edgar Negrete spoke about the performance, saying "We played a team that was filled with international players and I think we competed well with them. We had an objective that we wanted to score at all costs and we had two great goals by Matthew and Angel that gave our team momentum. Those goals were crucial for us more on the mental side of things and it was good to finally get over that hump of being scoreless, so it feels good we were able to overcome that. We went toe to toe with them and we got scored on due to moments of being fatigued. It was our 3rd game of the week and you can see it was taking a toll on some of the boys. However, I was happy that these boys fought towards the end and made it a fun game to watch. We now prepare for conference and I feel good about the momentum we have. I know we haven't had our first victory of the season but I feel like we will be okay going into conference now that the boys have that feeling of scoring. I feel like that pressure was hanging over my attacking players' heads and now that they scored they can finally breathe again.  We will get ready for Texas college and know that we come with a different mentality and understand that's it's a fresh start and that these games that we played were to get us ready for these games that are coming up. Overall, I was extremely proud of the player's performance and result."
 
The two goals were the first two of the season for the Mustangs and returning RRAC Offensive Player of the Year, Matthew Alvarado was able to get back in the goal column after 8 in 7 games last year. The goal scored by Angel Marban was the first of his career. Gabriel Neufeld was able to put a shot on goal in the contest as well. 
 
The Mustangs will open up conference play this week at Texas College on the 23^rd. They look to build off the momentum gained from this contest against OPSU and make a run at the conference tournament again this year.