Fresno, California ---- Houston Baptist University took a two-goal lead after the first 45 minutes, but host Fresno Pacific University exploded for three unanswered scores in the second half to hand the Huskies a 3-2 defeat at Martinez Field on Monday evening.

The Huskies got on the board first, as Ruzhdi Halili capitalized on an FPU foul, converting on a direct kick from right to left for a 1-0 lead.

HBU's lead would grow to two just before the half, as George Sangira stole a ball in the box and hit a shot into the right corner, sending the Huskies into the break with a 2-0 lead.

That lead evaporated in the second session, as Fresno pummeled the pipes with shots. Pablo Campos hit two of the three goals for the Sunbirds, including the game-winner in the 68th minute as FPU held off the Huskies for the final 22 minutes.

Fresno Pacific held a 23-12 margin in shots, including a 13-6 SOG advantage. The Birds also had nine corner kicks compared to just two for HBU.

Chris Dodd got the defeat for the Huskies, allowing three goals while making 11 saves.

HBU is now 7-3-1 on the season. The Huskies return home for the first of three straight at Husky Field when they host Southwestern Assemblies of God University on Friday at 3 pm.

The Huskies will take on Texas College at 4 pm in it's "Senior Day" contest.