CLAREMORE, Okla.- Looking to start the season with a win, the Missouri Baptist men's soccer team ran into a fast and skilled Rogers State team, as the Hillcats shutout the Spartans 3-0. 

The Spartans and Hillcats battled throughout the first half, but it was Mohammed Shaban breaking the 0-0 tie in the 35^th minute, after a nice give and go giving RSU the 1-0 lead. Three minutes later Rogers State struck again gaining a 2-0 lead on a goal by Niall Masterson, who weaved through the MBU defense beating Missouri Baptist goalie Ethan Brunk. 
 
After forcing four shots in the first half, the Spartans continued the pressure on the RSU defense, however were unable to break through. Rogers State extended their lead to 3-0 in the 68^th minute on a goal by Whellyn Carroll. The Hillcats were able to hold on for the three goal win in their season opener.
Even though the team was shutout, Coach Deno Merrick wasn't disappointed in his team's performance. 
 
"The team started off very organized and showed the ability to hold quality of possession. We played hard and the score line didn't reflect how we played," said Merrick. 
 
Forward Danny Traylor led the team with three shots on the evening. Jusef Zukanovic was the lone Spartan who had a shot on goal. Brunk made seven saves on the evening. 
 
The Spartans will be back in action again tomorrow, when the team travels to John Brown University. Game time is set to start at 3:00 p.m.