SANTA CRUZ, CA. – In a battle of unbeaten foes, UC Santa Cruz suffered their first season loss, falling 2-1 to UC Merced in a hard-fought match at home on East Field. Despite a penalty goal from Nico Herrera-Land and several second-half opportunities, the Banana Slugs could not find an equalizer, dropping to 4-1-5 on the season.
 
How It Happened
UC Merced struck early, scoring in the 6th minute to take the lead. They doubled their advantage in the 23rd minute with another goal, putting the Banana Slugs under pressure. UCSC responded in the 36th minute when Nico Herrera-Land drew a penalty and converted it to cut the deficit to 2-1. The Banana Slugs managed five shot attempts and earned two corners in the first half but couldn't find the equalizer before halftime.
 
In the second half, UCSC upped the tempo with six more shot attempts and several strong chances created by Herrera-Land. Max Beldner and Lawyer Mamaril held the line defensively, while goalkeeper Tobias Jacobson-Bell made three key saves to keep the game close. However, despite their efforts, the Banana Slugs could not break through Merced's defense, resulting in their first loss of the season.
 
By the Numbers
• Shots: UCSC – 11 (9 on target), UC Merced – 6 (6 on target)
• Corners: UCSC – 3, UC Merced – 0
• Saves: UCSC (Tobias Jacobson-Bell) – 3
 
What's Next
UC Santa Cruz will look to bounce back when they travel to Orange, CA, to face Chapman University on Saturday, October 5th at 11:00 a.m.