BROWNWOOD, Texas- The Howard Payne men's soccer team (2-3-2, 0-1-1) battled out a gritty draw against the East Texas Baptist University Tigers (4-2-2, 0-1-1) Saturday night at the Citizens National Bank Field. Goalkeeper Adrian Villa collected four saves to anchor in the resilient defensive effort.

Howard Payne was outshot by ETBU, 18-5, but Villa stood tall in the net, turning away all four shots on goal he faced during the opening 45 minutes to keep the match scoreless. Kolby Lara accounted for Howard Payne's shot on goal in the first half.

The Yellow Jackets found their footing in the second half, earning a 6-1 advantage in corner kicks and creating several dangerous opportunities down the stretch. Defender Nate Smith forced a high save from the ETBU goalkeeper, and Connor Parker narrowly missed a game-winner in the 82nd minute with a low shot saved in the bottom left corner.

Cameron Phipps added defensive stability while pushing the offense forward, registering two shots from the backline.

Up Next: The Howard Payne men's soccer team will continue ASC Conference play when the team travels to McMurry University on Thursday, October 1, at 7:30 PM.
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