WICHITA FALLS, Texas – Texas A&M International men's soccer held a late lead but weren't able to hold on for the victory, as they drew against Fort Hays State 2-2 in the Midwestern State Classic.
 
The Dustdevils started quickly, as junior Lassana Diakite scored just 5:48 into the game on an assist from junior Martell Martinez.
 
In the final second of the first half, Diakite scored his second of the game, this time being set up by sophomore Ricky Casso.
 
TAMIU held the 2-0 lead until the 79:56 mark when Fort Hays State cut the deficit to 2-1. Just 3:20 seconds later, with 6:44 remaining, the Tigers tied the game at 2-2 to bring the scoring to a close and take a victory away from the Dustdevils.
 
TAMIU held a heavy edge in shots at 12-4 going into halftime, but ended the game with only a 16-13 edge. The Dustdevils had seven on target and Fort Hays State had six.
 
Diakite and junior Tajani Fairclough each had a team high four shots. Fairclough had three on target and Diakite netted both of his shots on goal.
 
TAMIU continues its road trip on Wednesday, Sept. 14 in non-conference action against LSC foe UT Permian Basin. Opening kick from Odessa, Texas is set for 7 p.m.