The Mustangs scored three goals on their way to beating Oral Roberts University 3-1 Sunday night at Westcott field.
“I think it’s a good start,” head coach Tim McClements said. “As we went along we managed to get some of the new players in. We got a long way to go, but we are happy with the start.”
Not only were the men impressive in their 2013 preseason debut, but the victory came in front of a crowd of 476 spectators (89 more than 2012’s average regular season attendance).
Last season, the Mustangs were consistently out shot by their opponents. SMU finished the year averaging 11.8 shots per game, while its opponents averaged 15.1 shots per game.
Despite taking a relatively low number of shots, the Mustangs made sure each one they did take was high quality.
On Sunday, SMU dialed up the offensive pressure; out-shooting ORU 16-4. While SMU was taking more shots, it was apparent quality shots continue to be the standard.
“Obviously you got to score goals to win the game,” McClements said. “You have to put yourself in a position to get goals without giving them up. That’s part of managing the game.”
The Mustangs were in control for most of the match. Oral Roberts appeared to be over matched and never seemed to pose much of a threat to the sturdy SMU defense.
SMU received goals from Sophomores Michael King, and John Lujano, as well as an insurance goal from junior Will Smith in the 81st minute.
A total of 23 Mustangs played on Sunday, and not a single one looked out of place. As nice as it is to have so many good players on the team, it also raises an interesting problem.
“There are a number of guys that can play,” McClements said. “Right now the hardest decision is going to be in two weeks when we have to make the travel list [for] the first tournament in Indiana.”
The Mustangs will host Houston Baptist for their final exhibition match on Saturday at 5 p.m. on Westcott Field.