SEARCY, Ark. — #13 Mississippi College men's soccer played to a 2-2 draw against Harding on Tuesday, despite a dominant first half that saw the Choctaws control possession and take an early lead.

Jayce Dotson opened the scoring for Mississippi College in the 9th minute, pouncing on a rebound from a Sergio Garrido free kick to make it 1-0. The Choctaws outshot Harding 16-2 in the first half but couldn't extend their advantage before the break.

Harding responded in the second half, equalizing in the 56th minute when Lesego Maloma connected on a cross from Brandon Southard to beat Mississippi College goalkeeper Carlos Viquez. The Bisons took the lead just nine minutes later when Cian Halpin intercepted a pass on the defensive end and finished with a solo effort.

Mississippi College quickly found a response as Garrido netted a penalty kick in the 70th minute to level the match at 2-2. Despite several chances in the final 20 minutes, the Choctaws were unable to retake the lead.

Mississippi College outshot Harding 22-9, with Garrido leading the way with seven shots, four on goal. Viquez finished with three saves in the second half, while Harding's goalkeeper, Michael Wasson, tallied seven saves overall.

The draw moves Mississippi College to 2-0-1 on the season. They return to the road to face off against #4 Lynn on Sunday in Boca Raton, Fla. in a matchup of top 15 teams.

Match Summary:

• Goals:

  • Mississippi College: 8:17 — Jayce Dotson (Assist: Sergio Garrido)
  • Harding: 55:10 — Lesego Maloma (Assist: Brandon Southard)
  • Harding: 64:26 — Cian Halpin
  • Mississippi College: 69:20 — Sergio Garrido (Penalty Kick)

• Key Stats:

  • Shots: Mississippi College 22, Harding 9
  • Saves: Mississippi College 3, Harding 7
  • Fouls: Mississippi College 12, Harding 16