JACKSON, Tenn. - The Union University men's soccer team defeated Ouachita Baptist University 4-0 Thursday night at home to open the season. Union, ranked No. 16 in the NCAA D2 Coaches Poll, pushed its winning streak to six matches, dating back to last year. This was OBU's season opener as well. 

Union head coach Steven Cox said, "We focused a lot in the preseason about defending our shape and making sure we are organized as a group. It was good to see the guys execute that tonight and get the shutout."

Union stuck first early in the match in just the fifth minute of play. Alpay Altuntas for Union had a near miss when his shot from just inside the box hit the crossbar. However, William Valencia was there for the rebound, hitting the back of the net with his opportunity. Union added its second goal of the half on another rebound opportunity in the 17th minute. Jorge Gutierrez found the top left corner of the goal.

The two teams played a scoreless final 28 minutes of the half. Union out shot Ouachita Baptist 11-6 in the first half, including 5-1 in shots on goal. 

In the second half continued as the first half ended with a long scoreless stretch. The first 19 minutes of play in the second extended the scoreless stretch to 48 minutes. Then in the 64th minute, Union's David Hurtado was fouled in the box. He made good on his penalty kick to give the Bulldogs a 3-0 lead. Union tacked on one final goal in the 89th minute when Gavin Scott scored on an assist from Mats Fredricksen. 

Union out shot the Tigers 21-10 in the game, including 9-1 in shots on goal. Botond Nemeth recorded one save in his 90-minute shutout. 

Hurtado led Union with six shots, while Kenny Nitzsche added four. Altuntas and Nitzsche each recorded one assist.

Up next for the Bulldogs will be another home game, Saturday, September 4 at 7:00 p.m. versus Harding. 

-UNION-