TALLADEGA, Ala. – The Belhaven men's soccer team picked up a 5-2 victory over Talladega College on Saturday in their final contest before conference play. The Blazers have now won seven straight games, outscoring opponents 18-4 in that span.

Talladega took a 1-0 lead early in the first half, the third team this year to see Belhaven produce a come-from-behind victory. Quinton Jackson was credited with the equalizer, while Nicolas Cornejo picked up the assist.

"Today was another tough game in a difficult environment," Head Coach Carl Griffiths said. "Our guys kept their composure after falling behind early, and I was impressed with the response of our team."

Cillian Thompson broke the tie after catching Tornadoe goalie Christian Neira off line and chipping one in from 45 yards out. That goal was only the beginning of a big day for Thompson, as he assisted on Pedro DeSouza's goal right after the second half got underway.

Thompson struck once more later in the second half in a similar fashion to his first score of the afternoon, chipping one in from 36 yards away. After putting Belhaven up 4-1, Thompson finished his day with a pair of goals and an assist, giving him the most productive afternoon of anyone on the field.

"Cillian was definitely a leader for us out there today," Griffiths said. "He took care of his chances and did a good job using the entire field."

After the Tornadoes cut the lead to 4-2, Ollie Jones found Felipe Malachias, who then found the back of the net for the final goal of the match. Belhaven goalkeeper Marcelo Mercuri showed little rust after missing two games with an injury, picking up six saves in the net.

The Blazers now turn their attention to Southern States Athletic Conference rival William Carey University on Thursday evening. The conference opener is slated for 7:30 pm from the Belhaven Bowl.

"We're playing with confidence, and we've already begun preparing for that match tactically," Griffiths said. "I think momentum carries us into that game. We will be ready for them."