ASHLAND, Ore. - Simpson University men's soccer opened up its season on Thursday with a 3-0 loss to Southern Oregon University.

This was the first matchup in program history between the Raiders and the Red Hawks.

SOU got on the scoreline in the first minute after a foul in the box resulting in a penalty kick for Alan Gaytan. The Red Hawks also had their chances in the first half with five shots in the first 45 minutes, but the Raiders scored again via a second penalty kick.

Southern Oregon kept the pressure on Simpson for most of the match, but the Red Hawks held them off for most of the afternoon as Daniel Morales recorded six saves in the match in between the sticks.

Ruben Barajas and Joseph Bell each recorded two shots in the match, only one was on frame.

SU's season began with a top opponent in the NAIA on the West Coast and only gave up one goal during play (non-PK). Coming off of one of the best seasons in the program's recent history, Simpson men's soccer still has a lot of momentum heading into the early part of the season.

The Red Hawks will play in an exhibition match against College of the Redwoods at home on Saturday at 4 PM.