The Fresno Pacific Men's Soccer team started their 2024 season with a remarkable victory, defeating Division 1's University of the Pacific 2-1 in an exhibition match in Stockton. This road win is historic for the Sunbirds, marking their first victory over a Division 1 opponent since 2001.
The match was also notable as it was the debut for Cameron Shahrokhi as Associate Head Coach, and his squad rewarded him with a performance to remember. "The guys worked hard from start to finish," Shahrokhi said. "A strenuous 5-day training camp, capped off with a big-time win!"
The Sunbirds found themselves trailing after Pacific's Zion Vaughn scored in the 25th minute. However, Fresno Pacific quickly turned the tide in the second half, with Lucas Ribeiro and Bryan Lopez scoring back-to-back goals in the 46th and 49th minutes to secure the lead. The Sunbirds not only emerged victorious but also dominated the match statistically, outshooting Pacific 11-6 and earning five corner kicks to Pacific's three.
"Great response after going 1-0 down," Shahrokhi added. "We made some halftime adjustments tactically. As the match went on, our guys grew stronger. Great match to learn and build from!"
Fresno Pacific will look to maintain their momentum in their next preseason match at home against West Hills/Lemoore College on Wednesday, August 21. They will conclude their exhibition schedule with a home game against Lincoln University on Thursday, August 29, before kicking off their regular season against Cal State LA on Thursday, September 5, at Ramirez Field. Tickets for all regular season home games are $10 for fans 18 and over, and free for those 17 and under.
