The Chico State men’s soccer team fell short against the Cal Baptist University Lancers on Sept. 10, losing 1-2. The loss brings the ‘Cats overall season record to 1-2-1.

California Baptist out shot the Wildcats 12 to nine during the game, despite earning more fouls and off sides calls in the game. Despite forfeiting the ball more often, the aggressive offensive tactic the Lancers used gave them more shots on the goal and helped them maintain control of the ball.

Senior forward Omar Nuno was able to capitalize on a penalty kick in the 69th minute of the second half, to cut the ‘Cats deficit to one. Any further attempts to score were turned away as the Lancer’s goalkeeper Noah Oyler blocked promising shots by senior forward Rajaee DeLane and first year forward Mikey Hirsch, halting Chico’s attempt at a comeback.

Junior mid fielder Frankie Palmer was able to set up a penalty kick to tie the game, but the attempt was blocked by Oyler.

Nuno was able to finesse Oyler, as the goal keeper guessed the wrong direction in which the ball would enter the goal. The goal was Nuno’s fourth of the season and 14th of his career.

The Lancers were able to shake the Wildcats’ junior goalkeeper, Damion Lewis, as the ball barely cleared the box. Lancer Mather Bernard got the ball to slip in and gave the Cal Baptist the lead at the 34th minute of the first half.

The Lancers extended their lead 2-0 early in the second half when Marec Baptiste made a header goal off an assist.

The ‘Cats begin their league play in their next game against San Francisco State on the Gators’ home field on Sept. 16 at 12:30 p.m.

Gabriel Moreno can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @GabeSports3.