story by Carter Moles

MONTGOMERY, Ala.- Faulkner (6-5, 1-3 SSAC) claimed its first Southern States Athletic Conference victory of the season and its first-ever win over Martin Methodist (3-9-3, 3-3 SSAC) with a 2-1 decision here tonight at Billy D. Hilyer Stadium. 

Dave Chesterman smashed in a cross from Costa Whitehead in the 35th minute to get the Eagles' first goal of the night. Chesterman, who started the season at left back, now has two goals in two games at left wing. 

Whitehead scored on a one-on-one with goalkeeper Naoya Fugono at the end of a through ball from Mateus Cesar in the 53rd minute to double the Eagle lead. 

The RedHawks logged their lone goal in the 75th minute on an own goal by defender Takudzwa Imbayago. 

Goalkeeper Diego da Silva denied all eight RedHawk on-target shots and allowed the own goal in the victory.

"Our depth has been something to be proud of as they've inherited a next man up mentality" head coach Kyle Beard said after the game. 

The Eagles will travel to McKenzie, Tennessee, to face Bethel (6-8, 2-3 SSAC) in a league match at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday.