HILO, Hawaii - The Fresno Pacific Men's Soccer team's four-game win streak and perfect Hawaii road trip came to an end Saturday at the hands of the Hawaii-Hilo Vulcans, who knocked off the Sunbirds 3-0.  The defeat marks back-to-back losses for FPU against the Vulcans for the first time in the PacWest era. The Sunbirds had won the first nine contests between the schools spanning from 2012 - 2021.

A physical first half saw both teams commit multiple fouls, with the Sunbirds committing seven and the Vulcans six. FPU had several opportunities to score with shots by Lucas Ribeiro early and late in the half, both saved by the Vulcans' goalkeepers. The Vulcans capitalized on a corner kick late in the half, leading to a goal by Mirai Sato with an assist from Aidan Santos, marking the only goal of the half.

The second half began with the Vulcans doubling their lead in the 54th minute when Gen Takahashi scored following a penalty kick miss just moments earlier. The Sunbirds accumulated multiple fouls, including two by Kevin Closson in quick succession to go along with yellow cards issued to Brandon Lopez and Liam Nichols-Shipley.  The Vulcans extended their advantage to 3-0 with a goal by Mirai Sato midway through the half, assisted by Felix Drizinsky. The Sunbirds' attempts to score were thwarted by the Vulcans' defense, with Christian Souza making notable saves, including a shot by Stephan Morris.  The game ended shortly after Nichols-Shipley was sent off with a red card.  

The 'Birds will have plenty to ponder as they venture home across the Pacific.  Dominant victories over Hawaii Pacific and Chaminade put them back into PacWest postseason contention.  But its now Hilo and Westmont, who thrashed Art U 6-0 earlier in the day, that have leapfrogged the Sunbirds in the standings.  Clinging to the final PacWest tournament spot, the Sunbirds' postseason fate is in their own hands with two games left to play.

Up next is a home showdown with Point Loma - who have already clinched a tournament berth - on Thursday.  Kickoff is set for 5pm PT from Ramirez Field, and will be streaming live on the PacWest Network.  


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