LA VERNE- UC Santa Cruz played well for most of the game, but lost to La Verne 2-1 on Wednesday night to start a three-game roadtrip.
The hosts had a 1-0 lead at the half, courtesy of a 19th minute strike from James Coe. The Banana Slugs struck back and tied the game seven minutes after the restart when Davin Cox scored his first career goal with a left-footed blast from 25 yards.

UC Santa Cruz continued to possess well, but the Leopards took the lead back in the 74th minute with Angel Loza's tally that would eventually be the game winner.
The Banana Slugs had two good chances to tie in the last two minutes, but their final attempt was deflected and fell to the goalie at the left post and the Leopards held on for the win.
Overall, UCSC had a 21-12 shot advantage. Wolf Schermerhorn had four saves in goal.

UC Santa Cruz regroups for another road game at old rivals Chapman on Friday night.