ORANGE- UC Santa Cruz struggled in its return to Division III competition, falling 5-1 at Chapman in the first game of their Southern California roadtrip. 

UCSC dropped to 3-10 and Chapman went to 7-9.

The Banana Slugs played three Division II teams in the last two weeks. However, the Panthers were no step down in energy, and hit for three goals before halftime to take control of the game early. The Panthers then added another goal in the 57th minute.

After a half-hour delay for lightning, UCSC cut into the deficit when Cayce Shaw scored an unassisted goal in the 65th minute to make it 4-1.

Chapman however answered ten minutes later for the final margin. 

Allie Mandel finished with seven saves. The Banana Slugs finish the road trip on Saunday against Cal Lutheran.