PORTALES, N.M. – The Eastern New Mexico University men's soccer program dropped a 2-1 decision to the St. Mary's Rattlers on Thursday evening in San Antonio. The loss drops ENMU to 2-3-1 on the year and 1-2-0 in Heartland Conference action.
 
Ryan Flores started between the pipes for the Greyhounds, making his first collegiate start for the Green and Silver. The Andress High School product made three saves for Eastern in his debut.
 
The Rattlers captured an early lead in the match when Dan Johns was fouled inside the box for a penalty kick. Johns was able to capitalize on the free opportunity to beat Greyhounds' keeper, Ryan Flores to give St. Mary's the early advantage in the 17^th-minute.
 
With time winding down in the first half, Eastern was able to push across the equalizer. Senior Ryan McManus took advantage of a penalty kick opportunity in the 39^th-minute, shortly after Jason Van Achteren was ejected on a red card. McManus' goal was the first of the season for the Scottish senior after picking up six in the 2015 campaign.
 
Despite making the most of its opportunities, Eastern was unable to capture any momentum in the second half playing down a man. The Greyhounds recorded six shots with five being on goal, but were unable to take the lead.
 
St. Mary's took the lead for good late in the match on a header goal from Alexis Arredondo. His noggin was found on a throw in from Michael Lewis with just under 10 minutes to play in the match.
 
The Greyhounds return to the pitch on Saturday against Texas A&M-International. Kickoff is slated for 12 p.m. against the Dustdevils in Laredo, Texas. For the latest news, follow @ENMUAthletics on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and visit goeasternathletics.com.