FRESNO, Calif. — Fresno Pacific men's soccer opened CCAA play Friday night, falling 2-1 to Cal State San Marcos at Ramirez Field. The Sunbirds finished with an 11-7 advantage in total shots, but the Cougars held a 6-3 edge in shots on goal.
Cal State San Marcos applied early pressure, forcing Alegria into three saves, with a corner kick coming between the chances. After
Zion Vaughn sent Fresno Pacific's first attempt high and right at 2:49, the 'Birds gradually settled in and began creating opportunities of their own.
Noah Naranjo,
Preston Larger and
Alexis Lopez each recorded attempts as the half progressed, while
Shogo Haraikawa put a shot on frame that was saved at 41:47. The physical first half featured several fouls and a yellow card late in the period, but neither team could break through as the match entered halftime scoreless.
The Cougars struck early in the second half, taking a 1-0 lead at 48:20 after a shot found the top of the net. Fresno Pacific responded with increased pressure, creating a stretch that included a
Brandon Lopez shot, two corner kicks and another Naranjo attempt. The 'Birds continued searching for the equalizer, with
Beau Brusseau, Kouame and Naranjo each creating additional chances.
San Marcos extended its lead in the final eight minutes when Rivera found the back of the net to make it 2-0. Fresno Pacific refused to go quietly. Larger pulled a goal back in the 87th minute, cutting the deficit to one in style with a gorgeous overhead kick from inside the box to give the 'Birds a late opportunity to level the match. The Sunbirds continued to push in the closing minutes, but CSUSM held on to secure the 2-1 victory. Goalkeeper
Arturo Alegria kept Fresno Pacific within striking distance throughout the match, finishing with four saves.
UP NEXT: The Birds get a day to recover before heading up the 99 to take on UC Merced Saturday at 2pm. The women will play at 11am.
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