LA VERNE, CA. – The UC Santa Cruz Banana Slugs earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory against the University of La Verne on Friday afternoon. A goal by Nico Herrera-Land in the 44th minute proved to be the difference as UCSC remained unbeaten on the season, improving their record to 4-0-3.
 
How It Happened
The first half was tightly contested, with both teams battling for control. UCSC managed to break through just before halftime when Nico Herrera-Land scored in the 44th minute, thanks to a well-placed assist from Emanuel Tames-Kaimowitz. The Banana Slugs created several scoring chances before the goal, with shots on target from Oliver Gill, Joaquin Greenberg, and Tames-Kaimowitz. On the defensive end, goalkeeper Tobias Jacobson-Bell recorded two key saves to keep La Verne scoreless going into the break. UCSC also drew three corners during the first half.
 
In the second half, UCSC continued to apply pressure, with Joaquin Greenberg and Soren Groessl adding shots on target. Jacobson-Bell remained solid in goal, making another save to secure the clean sheet and help his team hold on to the 1-0 lead.
 
By the Numbers
                  •               Shots: UCSC – 7 (6 on target), La Verne – 7 (3 on target)
                  •               Corners: UCSC – 4, La Verne – 1
                  •               Saves: UCSC (Tobias Jacobson-Bell) – 3
What's Next
The Banana Slugs will travel to Redlands for their next match on Friday, September 20th, as they take on the University of Redlands.