JACKSON, Mississippi – Howard Payne University (3-9-3) was on the road Saturday evening to face Belhaven University (8-7-1) in Jackson during their final regular season game of the 2016 season. 

Despite facing 21 shots and 11 shots on goal in the game, the Yellow Jackets had the game notched at 2-2 heading into extra time. However, Belhaven was able to score during the 91st minute to sneak away with the win. 

Senior Brandon McGibeny notched another fine performance in goal for Howard Payne and senior Derek Anderson recorded his second goal of the season in the 52nd minute. But after facing a flurry of shots, especially in the second half, Howard Payne fell 3-2 in overtime. 

Belhaven University got on the board first with a goal in the 8th minute and they held onto the lead until the second half. But, in the 52nd minute, Tim Murphy placed a ball into the box that Derek Anderson rounded up and placed into the back of the net to tie the game up at 1-1. 

The Blazers answered right back four minutes later in the 56th minute and regained the lead, 2-1. They continued their attack, logging six more shots in the second half before Josue Vasquez evaded his defender and recorded his fourth goal on the season. The goal brought the two teams back to a 2-2 tie and pushed the match into overtime. 

Early in extra time, Belhaven received a corner kick that set them up nicely for the game-winner. The Blazers used the opportunity to place the ball within striking distance and eventually found the space to get off the game winning goal.  

Belhaven escaped with the 3-2 overtime victory and ended Howard Payne University's regular season. Brandon McGibeny recorded eight saves and Alex Sanchez, Josue Vasquez and Derek Anderson each recorded a shot in the match. 

Howard Payne ends the season having won or tied in their last four out of five matches. They will look to build upon that momentum next season and should have 17 returning players ready for the 2017 season. 

Be sure to follow along on Twitter @HPUMSoc and also at HPUSports.com for off-season updates as the Yellow Jackets look to continue their strong play of late.