ARCATA, Calif. - In an intense Friday afternoon clash, the Cal State East Bay men's soccer team kicked off CCAA action with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Cal Poly Humboldt at College Creek Field, securing their first road win since October 1, 2023.
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MATCH SUMMARY |
- Seizing the opportunity after a caution was issued to Cal Poly Humboldt, Eugenio Perez-Vera Merino stepped up for a free kick just outside the box. With precision and power, he found the lower corner of the net, giving the Pioneers a 1-0 lead and notching his first goal in Cal State East Bay colors.
- However, the home team wasn't ready to roll over. In the 29th minute, Humboldt's Duke Romanchak, assisted by James Haynes, equalized the match at 1-1, setting the stage for a tense second half.
- Just over 60 minutes into the action, the Pioneers orchestrated a beautiful play that would prove decisive. In the 61st minute, Julian Valle threaded a pass across the field, finding Andres Garcia-Diaz in prime position. Garcia-Diaz lifted his shot high into the middle of the frame, giving East Bay a lead at 2-1 and claiming his first goal since joining the programs.
- Just when it seemed the Pioneers had the game wrapped up, drama struck in the dying moments. With a mere 1:37 left on the clock, Humboldt was awarded a penalty kick—a golden chance to salvage a point. Enter Adan Corona, East Bay's guardian between the posts. In a moment of pure athletic brilliance, Corona made a specatcular save preserving the Pioneers' lead. But he wasn't done yet. As Humboldt mounted one final opportunity, Corona stood tall once more, making another crucial save in the final minute to ensure victory for his team.
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NOTABLE STATS |
- East Bay edged Humboldt in shots (9-8) and shots on target (5-4).
- Leon Eisert led the Pioneer attack with two shots.
- Adan Corona finished with three saves, including the game-defining penalty stop
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RECORDS |
Cal State East Bay: 2-4-1, 1-0-0 CCAA
Cal Poly Humboldt, 1-4-3, 0-1-0 CCAA
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UP NEXT FOR CAL STATE EAST BAY |
The Pioneers won't have long to savor this victory, as they face a quick turnaround for their next CCAA match. They'll travel to Rohnert Park, California, to take on Sonoma State at Seawolf Soccer Field. The game is set for Sunday, October 6, with kickoff at 2 p.m.
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