CLEVELAND, Tenn. - The Union University men's soccer team suffered its first loss of the season, 2-1 in overtime at Lee University Friday afternoon. Union, ranked No. 8 in the latest national rankings, dropped to 3-1-1 on the season, and 0-1 in the Gulf South Conference. Lee improved to 3-1 overall and 1-0 in league play. 

The No. 8 national ranking for Union marked the highest ranking in program history. The Bulldogs had also not lost in their last nine matches, going 8-0-1 in that stretch. 

Union took the first four shots of the game, but could not score early. Lee got its first shot with about 15 minutes left in the first half, then was able to find the back of the net in the 34th minute of play. Lee led 1-0 at the half. 

The teams played most of the second half the same as the first half. Then in the 75th minute, Union tied the match on a goal from Gavin Scott, assisted by David Hurtado. Regulation ended tied at 1-1. 

The first overtime was nearly over when Union's goalie was called for a foul in the box with just 25 seconds left in the first overtime. Lee's Eemeli Makale took advantage of the penalty kick to give his team the upset victory. 

Union led 10-9 in shots, while Lee edged Union 6-5 in shots on goal. Neither team took a corner kick in the match, and Lee led 16-10 in fouls. 

Union goalie Botond Nemeth recorded four saves in the loss. This game marked the first time this season that Union has allowed more than one goal in a game. And first time in the past seven games dating back to last year. 

Scott and Hurtado led Union with three shots each. 

Union will look to get back on track at Shorter, September 19 at 2:30 p.m.

-UNION-