ROHNERT PARK, CALIF.- The name of the game out at Seawolf Soccer Field was 100 degree heat and a tough matchup against the Cal State East Bay Pioneers. Sonoma State battled through the unfavorable conditions and competed for 90 minutes. Unfortunately, the Pioneers were able to emerge victorious, taking down the Seawolves by a final score of 3-1.

It was a slow start for coach Ziemer's squad as SSU struggled during the first half of play. Despite a relatively clean 45 minutes of soccer, only four fouls were called in total and zero cards were assessed, the Pioneers were able to jump out to a 1-0 lead. The Seawolves have spent much of the year keeping their opponents on their heels. Yet, the first half saw the team not attempt a single shot. They did rebound nicely with five attempts in the second half. Even after a slow start the team is still averaging just over 13 shots a game and is only allowing opponents 11 shots a contest.

While they were unable to secure the victory the Seawolves did not relent during the 90 minutes of play. Tiernan Nicewander in particular refused to allow the deficit or heat to impact his intensity. In 45 minutes of play Nicewander was constantly putting pressure on the Pioneers defense with hard runs to the goal. As for the teams lone score of the afternoon, it came after multiple well placed balls from the duo of Lucas English and Chris De Leon. A cross into the box from De Leon found English who was able to get the ball towards Barry Cahalane. The six-foot-six Cahalane had no trouble placing a header right into the back of the net for his first goal of the season.

Sonoma State has played six of their last seven matches at home. The boys will now prepare for a three game stint on the road with their next matchup taking place down in Los Angeles against Cal State LA on October 11th.