MONTEVALLO, Ala. - The Lincoln Memorial University men's soccer team got off to a great start in their season opener Thursday afternoon, but three second-half goals by Montevallo, including the deciding score in the 88th minute, led to a 3-2 loss.

"Our guys were absolute warriors today," head coach Robert Spain said. "I'm so proud of the entire team despite the result. To be such a young team and go on the road in the season opener to play such a quality opponent, I was really happy with our growth that we've shown so quickly into the season. Additionally, we had two freshmen score our goals, so there is a lot of optimism in this group to continue to grow and look forward to the challenge at home this coming weekend."

Freshmen Jacob Agazzi and Arkin Ulusoy got the season off on a positive note as Agazzi slotted home a pass from Ulusoy in the 29th minute. The Railsplitters held strong defensively throughout the rest of the opening period and went into the locker room with a 1-0 lead.

The Falcons evened the score in the 55th minute on a Fabio Menzel goal, but LMU responded quickly. Ulusoy continued his outstanding afternoon on the offensive end as he took a pass from senior Shanden Vergara to give the Railsplitters a 2-1 lead.

In the 67th minute, Montevallo drew a foul in the box and Edin Hernandez converted the penalty kick to tie the contest at two. Twenty minutes later, the Falcons provided the dagger with a Martin Chladek goal, clinching the 3-2 victory.

Ulusoy was the standout for LMU offensively with one goal and one assist, while Agazzi's goal and Vergara's assist finished out the scoring. Robin Hermann also provided a solid effort defensively and finished with five saves on the afternoon.

The Railsplitters will look to bounce back quickly as they face West Alabama at the LMU Soccer Complex this coming Sunday. Kickoff is slated for 1 p.m.