COMMERCE– The Texas A&M University-Commerce soccer team returns to action on Tuesday for a regional matchup against Dallas Baptist. The match will be the final non-conference match for the Lions during the regular season.
 
WHO: Texas A&M-Commerce (5-2-2, 2-2-0 LSC) vs. Dallas Baptist (7-2-1, 5-1-1 HC)
WHERE: The Lion Soccer Field in Commerce, Texas
WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 3 at 7 p.m.
LIVE STATS: Click HERE
LIVE VIDEO: lionathletics.com/live
TICKETS: Click HERE
 
The Lions are coming off of a 2-1 loss against Midwestern State on Sunday. Head coach Neil Piper thought both goals scored against his team were given up too easily.
 
"I was disappointed with the way we played in the first half, particularly with the goals we gave up," he said. "I thought they were very soft. We are not a good enough team to win games by giving teams goals. Although in the second half, we worked really hard and tried to get that equalizer, our finishing just is not good enough to be a top team right now."
 
The Lions will now face regional opponent Dallas Baptist. The Patriots are currently 7-1-2 and in second place in the Heartland Conference. Their only conference loss of the season came to St. Edward's, who is currently ranked No. 4 in the country. The Lions are ranked No. 4 in the South Central Region, with DBU ranked just behind them. Piper knows the result of this match could have major implications on the Lions' postseason aspirations.
 
"It is massive for us–massive for both teams really," Piper said. "It can steer the season in so many ways. It is probably one of our toughest tests of the season. They are very athletic, very big. They pass the ball well. It is going to be a tough one."
 
Knowing the importance of the match, Piper knows his team needs to play well for the entire match. He knows mistake-free soccer will be what it will take to come out on top.
 
"We have to be disciplined and not make mistakes," he said. But we haven't done that the last couple games. It is not going to be easy."
 
Tickets for Tuesday's match are available at WeAreLionsTix.com, by calling (903) 468-8756, by visiting the Lion Sales & Service Box Office in the Field House, or by purchase at the gate at the Lion Soccer Field.