DALLAS (SMU) – The No. 25 SMU men's soccer team beat the Leathernecks of Western Illinois 2-1 Friday evening. The Mustangs improve to 2-1-0, while the Leathernecks fall to 0-2-1.

Freshman Garrett McLaughlin set the pace for the Mustangs, nailing a header in the back of the net off a corner kick in the third minute of the match. Bryce Clark was credited for the assist. The goal was McLaughlin's first of his collegiate career.

"He was in the right spot," head coach Kevin Hudson said. "He has a nose for the goal and we're happy that he took it for us."

The Leathernecks retaliated late in the first half with Daniel Collins' goal in the 37th minute. Collins collected a cross from Armel Kouassi and tapped in ball in past the far post. The second assist came from Jacob Bevan.

The momentum quickly swung back in the Mustang's favor. Mauro Cichero found the back of the net in the 43rd minute, with the assist from Dwight Williams, Jr. and Christian Boorom. Cichero, a 2016 MAC Hermann Trophy preseason watchlist candidate, led all Mustangs with four shots and two shots on goal. He now has two goals for the Mustangs this season.

Michael Nelson received his second victory of the season, recording two saves in 90 minutes of play.

"We have some stuff to improve," Hudson said. "We are pleased to win. Obviously that's the most important thing, but in order to get it right, we have to fix some things. In order to achieve the goal we want to achieve, we have to play better."

SMU hosts American Sunday at 7 p.m. at Westcott Field. It is Military Appreciation day, where the Mustangs will honor U.S. Army Veteran Isaiah Peel prior to kick off. All Military and family will receive free admission with valid ID.