The Chico State
men’s soccer team had its home opener spoiled Friday by the visiting UC San Diego Tritons,
who handed the ‘Cats its first loss of the season in a 1-0 finish.

There were plenty of opportunities for both teams to score in the first half. The ‘Cats did a good job pushing the ball down the field, but couldn’t keep control in the opposing side of the field.

The Tritons took advantage of an opportunity first, with a goal from Taylor Wirth in the 28th minute on a shot that hit the crossbar and bounced inside the net.

Chico State controlled the game in the second half, but couldn’t get the ball in the goal. The best chance came when midfielder Luis Martinez had a free kick that was on target, but was stopped with a great dive by the goalkeeper.

”We came out slow,” said forward Octavio Guzman. “We were unlucky. It was just us having a bad game.”

The ‘Cats fall to 2-1 in the California Collegiate Athletic Association and 4-1 on the season. They will try to get back to their winning ways on Sunday against Cal Poly Pomona.

Sergio Sanchez can be reached at [email protected]