ST. LOUIS - In the 2024 season opener at Spartan Field the Spartans fell behind in the first half, but were able to scratch their way back into the game in a strong 3rd quarter before finding themselves behind 35-28 at the final whistle.

Big plays hurt MoBap early in the contest as the Phoenix scored a pair of touchdowns on 74 and 32 yard runs into paydirt. In the second quarter Cumberland tacked on another huge play as a 73 yard pass and run across the goal line put MBU down 21-0.

Jonah Cox got the Spartans on the scoreboard with a 28 yard field goal, and MBU went into the locker room at halftime down 28-3.

Following the break, MBU set the tone with a 12 play 70 yard drive capped off with a Lionel Banks touchdown run. After a stop on defense, the Spartans called Banks' number again and he scampered 68 yards into the endzone. The huge third quarter was not done for the Spartans as Lee Levingston III got a tip drill interception leading to Jordan Simpson's first touchdown pass of the year to Joseph White for 22 yards.

Down 25-28 the Spartans were set to get the ball back following a three and out. On the punt return White found some space and broke a handful of tackles on his way to the endzone, but a heartbreaking block in the back penalty was called and MBU could not get points on that drive.

Cumberland tacked on one more touchdown and was able to hold the Spartans to just a field goal pinning a loss on MBU to start the year 35-28.

Despite the loss, Missouri Baptist found a lot of success on the field throughout the contest as Banks rushed for 120 yards, White received for 120 yards, and Rakweon Ramsey, Giovanoi Sanes, and Nick Stepney tallied double digit tackles.

MoBap will return to the field on Saturday at 1:00 P.M. when they host Clarke University at Spartan Field.