The first-ever NCAA Division I men's soccer home game played in the state of Arizona did not disappoint, as the Grand Canyon University (1-6-1, 0-1-0) and Houston Baptist (7-2-0, 2-0-0) hooked up in a spirited and tightly contested Western Athletic Conference matchup on the GCU Soccer Field in Phoenix. While the results were not what Antelopes fans had hoped for, losing 2-1, the game's historic context was the winner of the night.

"I'm very proud of the guys, they played their hearts out," said head coach Petar Draksin. "We can't say enough to the community and students that came out to support us. It was a big night in the state of Arizona for men's soccer because there hasn't been a Division I team before."

It was the sixth game decided by one goal for GCU this season.

"I'm tired of things being so close and I know that one of these days, they will turn in our favor," added Draksin. "Our guys are playing their hearts out, but we have to get better in our speed of play on both offense and defense. These teams play hard, they pressure you, and they are fit and strong. They force you to make mistakes. We just have to improve our speed of play."

HBU held the advantage in shots, 17-12, although the Antelopes carried much of the offensive pressure in the second half. GCU goal keeper Joshua Zehring finished with five saves as the Huskies placed seven of their shots on goal.

The Huskies got on the board early with a goal in the seventh minute, an unassisted shot off the foot of Kristopher Tyrpak. The 'Lopes responded to knot the score at one when Adam Finnefrock collected his first goal of the season in the 30^th minute on a corner kick assist from Amer Sasivarevic.

"Adam has been fantastic," Drak explained. "Last season, his goal put us in the Sweet 16. He is a kid that gives you everything, I can't say enough about him."

HBU outshot GCU, 9-6, in the first 45 minutes, while both teams placed three shots on target.

The 'Lopes put pressure on the Huskies for much of the second half before HBU broke the tie when Tyrpak once again found the back of the net, this time on an assist from the left side from Stefan Lamanna in the 81^st minute. GCU was unable to find another opportunity to once again equalize the score as they fell in the program's first ever contest as members of the WAC.

"Our boys battle," said Draksin. "We just need some luck."

GCU will host another home contest on Sunday at 2:30 p.m. against Kansas City on GCU Soccer Field. Fans can follow the action via live stats and video at www.gculopes.com.

The game served as part of GCU's annual Breast Cancer Awareness weekend. The Antelopes men's soccer team wore pink with their uniforms and will do so again on Sunday. The women's volleyball game will wear pink uniforms during their home match tomorrow night at 7 p.m. in their match against Utah Valley.

Additionally, Eastbay will bring their "Where Athletes Are" tour to the GCU campus on Sunday for the men's and women's soccer games. Highlighting the tour Eastbay will feature its latest footwear and other apparel from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

---

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU

Women's NCAA Tournament Sweet Sixteen Recap

Men's NCAA Tournament Second Round Recap

Recruiting Roundup: November 25-December 1