The Chico State men’s soccer team had a great start to their 2025 season, scoring a goal in the first 21 seconds of the game against the Western Washington Vikings.
It was a perfect day for a soccer game: The sky was clear and everyone got to enjoy a great sunset behind the crowd in the stands. There were six subs for the Wildcats during the game, with seven shot attempts, while Western Washington had 13 attempts.
Freshman midfielder Dane Peterson put Chico State in the lead early when he made his first Wildcat goal 21 seconds into the game with no assistance as he ran to the goal against two defenders. As the defenders tried to get the ball, he saw a gap and kicked the ball in right past the goalkeeper.
There were five fouls and one yellow card from Western Washington and two fouls from Chico State.
The Vikings battled their way to even the score at one apiece in the 81st minute. Both teams failed to score a winning goal, leaving the game at a draw.
“Incredible start for a young team,” Head Coach Felipe Restrepo said. “Good start by Peterson. They played a really good team and the boys played hard and responded well together with a great start to the season. I’m proud of this young group for all 90 minutes.”
Restrepo is looking forward to playing against Seattle Pacific University. For the next home game, he encouraged Chico’s family and friends, “Come support our Wildcats!”
The Wildcats will host Seattle Pacific on Saturday at noon. Home games are free for students who bring their student ID or show their Canvas home page.
For more information about all Chico State athletics or to keep up with the game live, visit the Wildcat home page, or watch through FloSports.
Malisse Busby can be reached at [email protected] or [email protected].
