BURNABY, BC -- The Sonoma State men's soccer team dropped a 3-0 decision to two-time defending NCAA West Region champion and third-ranked Simon Fraser on Thursday in Burnaby, BC; it was the season opener for both squads.  The Clan outshot the Seawolves 21-5 in the match, including 10-1 in the second half, but all three of SFU's goals came in the first half.

"I knew when I scheduled Simon Fraser to open the season, it would be a tough game," said SSU head coach Marcus Ziemer.  "Being that they are the two-time defending region champs and went to the last two NCAA Final Fours, this was a good chance to see where we need to improve."

Simon Fraser scored in the 16th, 19th and 27th minutes to put Sonoma State down early and it was a deficit that the Seawolves could not overcome.  SSU almost got on the scoreboard with time winding down in the first half when Zanin Mahic was awarded a penalty kick in the 40th minute, but Clan goalkeeper Brandon Watson made the save to keep the shutout in tact.

SSU goalkeeper Sean Taufer made five saves in the contest, including his own stop on a penalty kick, but in the second half.

"It was a very physical game," added Ziemer.  "Unfortunately Brenton Frame got hammered early and had to sub out and couldn't return.  We settled down and played well the last 60 minutes.  We had a couple of great chances and unfortunately missed a penalty kick, but there were many bright spots."

Sonoma State will play a neutral-site match with Hawaii-Hilo on Sunday at 1:00 pm in Burnaby before making its 2014 home debut next Thursday (Sept. 11) against California Baptist at 5:00 pm.