The #2 ranked FPU men's soccer team had a tough day today losing their first match of the season 4-0 to #24 Azusa Pacific.
A Cougar goal in the 9th minute by Andrew Kirby off a set play put the Sunbirds behind early on. APU would score again when Jared Karkas converted a penalty kick in the 17th minute, followed by a third by APU's Nathan Nienhuis in the 30th minute. The half would end with the Sunbirds trailing 3-0 at the break.
Going into the second half of play, the Sunbirds were never able to gain control of the game and conceded the fourth and final goal to APU's Eric Winblad in the 60th minute off another set piece.
“We just didn't play well at all and came out flat,” admitted FPU Head Coach Jaime Ramirez. “They (APU) were very aggressive and physical, and after the early goal were able to gain momentum and confidence.”
With the Sunbirds scheduled to host the Men's NAIA National Championship Tournament December 1-6th, and having received an automatic bid, Coach Ramirez is concerned about complacency possibly setting in.
“My worry is that with our automatic bid (into the National Tournament), some of the guys may be looking too far ahead already,” suggested Ramirez. “Hopefully this is our wake up call.”
With the loss the Sunbirds drop to 5-1 (1-1), but look to bounce back as they travel to face Vanguard University of Southern California this Friday October 3rh. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00PM.
