The 2012 Sunbirds squeaked out a 4-3 win over the Alumni in the annual Men's Soccer Alumni Match.

Junior Jordan Cardoza had a big night scoring two goals for the Sunbirds. Bruno Pessoa scored as well for FPU and the fourth goal came on an own goal by the Alumni.

The match comes at a break in FPU's schedule, the Sunbirds won 6-0 against Dominican on Wednesday but do not play again until this Thursday when they host Azusa Pacific.

“It is good just to give the current team a good challenge,” said assistant coach Orlando Ramirez. “They have the off week and they aren't doing a whole lot and it is fun for us to all come and get a good game in.”

Orlando Ramirez scored a goal in the third period to tie the match at three before Cardoza put in his second of the night to give the Sunbirds the win and avenge their 5-4 loss to the alumni last season.

The game is a chance for not only a great match between the legends of Fresno Pacific soccer, but a time to catch up with old friends who make the journey from near and far to relive their college experience.

“It's an opportunity for us to bring back those guys that set the foundation here,” said head coach Jaime Ramirez. “It is a reminder to the guys that are currently here that there are others that have come before them that have paved the way for us to be where we are at.”

The players on the 2012 team also relish the chance to play against the players who laid the foundation for Fresno Pacific as well as many of their coaches.  

“Throughout the year there is always this type of rivalry knowing that at some point you are going to play them,” said midfielder Guillermo Talancon. “When we are on the field together you get the competition, but also this feeling of happiness in knowing that we are all together.”

The Sunbirds will look to continue their offensive hot streak this Thursday against Azusa Pacific at Ramirez Field. Kick-off is scheduled for 5 pm.