Senior forward Arthur Ivo dribbles the ball, evading Memphis defenders, during Friday evening’s match at Wescott Field. (Spencer J Eggers/The Daily Campus)

In an exciting match Friday night, the Mustangs defeated the Memphis Tigers in their season finale 2-1.

The game had a rocky start, as Memphis fired one into the back of the net within the first two minutes.

However, the Mustangs came back at rapid fire scoring two back-to-back goals before the whistle at half-time.

The first game-changing goal was shot by sophomore Juan Castillo and less than a minute later. Senior Aruthur Ivo shot the game-winner.Coach Tim McClements described the game as “unbelievable,” and a successful way to end Senior Night.

“You know we’ve had some mixed results as of late… we are starting to get everybody back,” he said. “It was nice for them to put together a really solid performance tonight and to get the win.” Along with celebrating a season finale victory, the Mustangs also honored seven seniors in playing their last game at Wescott Field.

Diogo deAlmeida, Arthur Ivo, Ian Kalis, Joe Cooper, Ryan Rosenbaum, Payton Hickey and Captain Adam Still walked out onto the field by their family and loved ones. 

Still was also awarded for being a top ten finalist for the Lowe’s Senior Class Award. The award is based on achievements made both on and off the soccer field.

His father, Randy Still, is not only proud of his son’s accomplishments but those of the entire team.

“We’ve sort of seen these kids grow up since they were 13 to 14 years old.  They’ve all played soccer together,” he said. “It is sad…it’s their last time they’ll be playing together here at home.”

This graduating class has a relationship that runs deeper than their SMU careers, which makes this goodbye tougher than most.

“I think it’s sad because I mean me, Adam, Diogo, Hickie, Ian, we’ve all been playing together since we were 12,” Ivo said.

The players also share a special relationship with their coach. The first year at SMU for these players, was also McClemments’ first year coaching the Mustangs. He credits the players for accepting a new coach and implementing success into the soccer program.

“So I think they’ve been pillars to the program,” McClements said. “I think that was a great way to send them out.”