After obtaining a much-needed victory last weekend, the UCLA men’s soccer team looked to extend its winning streak against the University of San Diego at Torero Stadium on Thursday night.
Instead, the Bruins (2-3-2) and Toreros (0-5-2) played to a 1-1 tie in double overtime. UCLA has yet to win a game on the road this season.
It looked like the Bruins were going to end that streak early in the match. Like they did in their 2-0 win against Santa Clara last Saturday, the Bruins got on the board early when junior midfielder Michael Stephens found the net in just the seventh minute of the game, breaking a scoreless tie.
“Michael had a tremendous finish for the goal,” coach Jorge Salcedo said. “Obviously, we had a good start to the game. I liked the way we came out.”
Stephens’ first goal of the season also marked the fourth time this season that UCLA has held a 1-0 advantage.
But San Diego countered with five minutes left in the first half, tying the score at one goal apiece.
From there, both defenses denied any scoring opportunities. Junior goalkeeper Brian Perk had eight saves, including six after the first half.
“The score of the game is really misleading,” Salcedo said. “We were the better team tonight. We just couldn’t capitalize on our opportunities to take the lead.”
According to Salcedo, injuries to freshman forwards Fernando Monge and Prince Lapnet have also left him without the ability to make changes to his offensive front, which plays a crucial role in his strategic plans.
UP NEXT: The Bruins return to Drake Stadium to play against Cal State Northridge at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Although the Bruins fell by a score of 3-0 at Northridge last season, they are an overwhelming 12-1-2 in 15 all-time contests against the Matadors.
“Northridge has a good combination of skillful and athletic players,” Salcedo said. “We look forward to playing at home in one of our last preseason games before conference begins.”