ATHERTON, Calif. — Competing in the Menlo Kickoff, Fresno Pacific secured its first victory of the season over Cal Poly Humboldt, 4-1, on Thursday at Wunderlich Field. The Sunbirds dominated the match with 21 total shots and 12 on target, overcoming an initial deficit.
"It was a great test of our character after going down 1-0," mentioned Head Coach
Cameron Shahrokhi. "I'm proud of the way we responded. The guys stuck together and showed real quality in numerous moments."
The Sunbirds controlled possession in the first half, starting with impressive shots by
Zion Vaughn,
Daniel Perez, and the Lopez twins, Bryan and Brandon. With 26 minutes left in the half, Humboldt broke the stalemate with a Tic-Tac-Toe pass, scoring to take a 1-0 lead.
Fresno Pacific responded to Humboldt's early goal with a score from
Beau Brusseau in the 31st minute, leveling the contest at 1-1 by halftime. It was the third corner of the day,
Alexis Lopez sent a swinging ball that perfectly fell into Brusseau's path for his first collegiate goal! Despite Fresno Pacific's offensive efforts, including seven shots and three corner kicks, McDonald's goalkeeping for the Lumberjacks maintained the team's edge. The first half concluded with both teams tied, setting the stage for a competitive second period.
Fresno Pacific capitalized on its dominance in the second period, adding three more points to its board. Just under thirty minutes of play,
Bryan Lopez took a close-range shot that was blocked by the goalkeeper, but Vaughn came right down the middle and slid the ricocheted ball into the top right corner, boosting the Sunbirds ahead 2-1. The University of the Pacific transfer continued to lead the charge, notching another goal in the 73rd minute, assisted by teammate
Cole Keeslar. Sunbird freshman
Noah Naranjo sealed the outcome with a goal in the 86th minute, assisted by goalkeeper
Arturo Alegria. The Sunbirds' defense held firm despite multiple shots from Cal Poly Humboldt, maintaining the lead until the very end.
Fresno Pacific soccer is officially 1-0 on the season, and the 'Birds are already making a statement. With four goals on the scoresheet, including two from freshmen, the Sunbirds have plenty of momentum and even more to look forward to as the season gets underway.
NEXT UP: The Blue and Orange take on the tournament's host, Menlo College, on Saturday, August 29 at 4pm.
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