WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The Salem University men's soccer team put together one of its best offensive performances of the season on Saturday but came up just short in a 5–4 road loss to West Liberty.

The Tigers (2-7-6) overcame a 2–1 halftime deficit and surged ahead with three unanswered goals early in the second half, highlighted by a hat trick from sophomore forward Caleb Christner. Christner scored in the 55th, 57th, and 67th minutes to give Salem a 4–2 advantage.

CJ Branch opened the scoring for Salem in the 20th minute with a goal off a corner kick to put the Tigers in front early.

West Liberty answered with a late surge, netting three goals in the final 13 minutes — including the game-winner in the 86th minute — to reclaim the lead and seal the result.

In goal, Jason Barrientos recorded two saves, while Noah Plummer entered for the final nine minutes. Salem totaled 15 shots and seven corner kicks on the day, maintaining pressure throughout an end-to-end contest that featured multiple red cards and late drama.

Next Up. the Tigers host West Virginia Wesleyan on Wednesday, October 29th for a 2:30 matchup with the Bobcats.