PULASKI, Tenn. – The Martin Methodist Men's Soccer team fell behind early, but never surrendered in a 4-3 loss to No. 1 nationally-ranked William Carey (Miss.) Thursday night.

In a match where the visitors scored twice in the opening half hour, it appeared as if the RedHawks (7-6, 2-2 SSAC) would be in for a long night versus the nation's top-ranked squad.

But, in the final seconds of the first half, the RedHawks struck for their first goal of the night on a header from substitute Reece Ashurst.

With a new sense of urgency, the RedHawks had their share of scoring opportunities in the opening moments of the second half.

Despite the jolt of energy, the RedHawks could not find an equalizer and the visitors bagged their third of the night in the 58th minute.

But, once more, the RedHawks dug out of a two-goal deficit and pulled within striking distance. Alex Kleczkowski connected on a goal moments after the William Carey tally to make the contest 3-2.

The squads played even for the next 15-plus minutes before the Crusaders (12-0, 5-0 SSAC) added their final tally of the night.

Despite the two-goal deficit, the RedHawks mustered one last rally on a goal from Miguel Tizapa in the game's final 15 seconds.

The Crusaders booted the ensuing kickoff long and the RedHawks never had their final opportunity to tie the contest.

The loss snapped a two-match win streak versus ranked opponents for the RedHawks, who knocked off No. 24 Cumberland (Tenn.) and No. 17 Georgia Gwinnett earlier this season.

The RedHawks will meet yet another ranked foe this Saturday when they host No. 3 University of Mobile (Ala.).

The match will be part of a busy day at East Campus as the RedHawks welcome old friends, family, and alumni for Alumni Weekend 2018.

Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. at Grissom Pitch.

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