LIVINGSTON, AL — University of West Alabama senior forward David Nunez scored three second-half goals Saturday afternoon, setting two single-season program records as the Tigers rallied for a 4-1 Gulf South Conference victory over Mississippi Christian.
Click here to subscribe to our free Tuscaloosa Daily newsletter and breaking news alerts
The win improved UWA to 6-5-4 overall and 4-2-3 in conference play, securing the Tigers a berth in the upcoming GSC Tournament.
Nunez's hat trick brought his season totals to 16 goals and 38 points, both new single-season records for the West Alabama men's soccer program.
A native of Gijon, Spain, Nunez was named GSC Freshman of the Year in 2023 and was first team all-conference last season.
Mississippi Christian struck first in the 36th minute when Karim Gegg scored off an assist from Lian Feridani, giving the Choctaws a 1-0 halftime lead.
West Alabama responded in the 58th minute when Nunez scored his 14th goal of the season off an assist from Florian Laot to even the match at 1-1.
Nunez then put the Tigers ahead for good with another goal in the 65th minute before completing his hat trick six minutes later to extend the advantage to 3-1.
Jesper Bakli added another goal in the 80th minute as West Alabama completed the comeback with four unanswered goals after halftime.
The Tigers finished with 11 shots, including four on goal, while Mississippi Christian recorded nine shots and six on target. West Alabama goalkeeper Dan Erez made five saves in the victory.
West Alabama also held a 4-3 advantage in corner kicks.
With a postseason berth secured, the Tigers remain in contention to host a first-round GSC Tournament match depending on the final conference standings.
West Alabama will conclude its regular season Friday, Oct. 23, with a road matchup against Trevecca Nazarene.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Tuscaloosa Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.