The SMU men’s soccer exhibition match against Houston Baptist University on Saturday showed that the Mustangs is a team full of athletes willing to push their own limits and match their opponents.

The starting line-up was able to retain possession of the ball for the majority of the first half, with numerous strong shots on goal. Midfielders Peyton Hickey and A. J. Corrado had the strongest shots on goal in the first half, with forward Juan Castillo showing his athleticism by meeting the ball and having skilled positioning.

In the final minute of the second half, SMU had possession of the ball and forward T. J. Nelson had a two strong shots on goal that were blocked.

Going into the second half, the score was still 0-0, and the Mustang defense continued to play strong keeping the Huskies to just one shot on goal for the entire game. Guy Logan and Craig Hill had strong performances in the pony goal, Hill communicating well with his teammates and Logan challenging the ball when necessary.

The best shot on goal was made in the second half around the 82 minute mark when midfielder Max Rockwell made a shot that bounced off the crossbar.

Although the game ended a draw, the Mustangs were clearly the stronger team and showed a lot of promise for the season ahead. SMU men’s soccer will have their first game of the regular season on Sept. 1 against Missouri State at 7 p.m.