Powell, Wyo. — TMCC's Men secured their first win of the season on Friday, defeating Northwest College in a 2-1 result on the road.

A strong defensive performance would be key for the Mighty Lizards, who neutralized chance after chance by the Trappers en route to the season opening win. Sophomore defender Erick Ceja-Gonzalez put forth a dominant effort in one-on-one situations, shutting down dangerous Trappers striker Thomas Mullen. 

The Mighty Lizards kept the Trapper defense on their toes for most of the first half, posting three shots on goal. TMCC would jump ahead before the end of the period, gaining a 1-0 advantage on a 43rd minute score from sophomore Cameron Kornock.

While the Trappers would pull even shortly after the start of the second half, converting on possibly their best chance of the day, TMCC stayed resilient. Newcomer Cuauhtemoc Borjon would assist fellow first-year midfielder Oscar Villasenor with 15 minutes remaining, giving TMCC a 2-1 advantage they would hold on to for the rest of the afternoon. 

"Today was a great win for us," said coach Geoff Hawkins. I think you learn the most about yourselves in close games, and we definitely showed what we are capable of. The defense did such a good job, and the midfield play was very technical and excellent as well."

The Mighty Lizards will take on the Trappers again on Saturday morning before returning home to Reno to take on Lassen Community College in their first home match on Aug. 27.