ROME -- The Hawks opened Gulf South Conference play with a 4-0 setback to Mississippi College Friday evening from Ben Brady Field.

With the loss, Shorter moves to 0-5 overall and 0-1 in the GSC; while the Choctaws – who were receiving votes in the latest United Soccer Coaches' poll – improve to 4-0-1 on the year and 1-0 in conference play.

The Choctaws scored twice in each half to put the game out of reach from the Hawks. Opening the scoring in the 19th minute on the first goal of the night from Haracio Gutierrez, Jr., before Connor Johnson made it a 2-0 game in the 31st.

After the break, Gutierrez struck for a second score to extend MC's lead to 3-0. Moment later the Choctaws added a final goal for the 4-0 score.

The Hawks had chances in the game placing three of their eight shots on target only to be saved by MC 'keeper Humberto Pelaez. Richard Coomer led the effort with three shots, one on goal. While, Hassane Traore, Felix Guijosa, Justen Macias and Timothy Dowd each finished with one.

Sean Carpenter played the complete game in goal for Shorter making four saves.

The Hawks will look to turn things around Sunday afternoon at 3:00pm when they welcome Delta State to Ben Brady Field.