In their final game before opening Western Athletic Conference play for the first time, the Grand Canyon University men's soccer team (1-5-1) dropped a 3-2 decision at Cal State Fullerton (3-5-0) tonight in at Titan Stadium in Fullerton, Calif.

The game was not without dramatics, as the 'Lopes pulled within one goal twice in the second half.

"We are doing so many good things, and the chemistry is great, but the luck is not there," said head coach Petar Draksin. "I am at a loss for words, but we just have to cross that bridge. We are creating chances and playing well."

"We can't take for granted the quality of programs we are playing as well," added Draksin. "They are established in Division I. So we have to do things faster and smarter, and we have to avoid the mistakes that we seem to keep making."

Kyle Ciliento scored his fourth goal of the season and is now just one goal away from tying the school record of 55 career goals, set by Michael Coehlo from 1997-99.

The Titans scored twice in the first half, once in the 26^th minute following a Spencer Johnson corner kick that found the foot of Ian Ramos. Their second goal came just seven minutes later, when Marc Fenelus' unassisted shot found the back of the net.

Fullerton outshot GCU in the first 45 minutes, 7-3, and placed three of those on goal compared to one for the 'Lopes.

GCU made it a one goal game in the 58^th minute on Ciliento's goal, assisted by Brandon Hansen. However, the Titans responded with a goal of their own 10 minutes later on a cross from the right side by Steven Ortiz.

The 'Lopes countered again, this time when Alberto Sanchez Garcia netted his first goal of the season on a breakaway and beat Fullerton keeper Robbie Hannon on the left side in the 84^th minute. GCU attempted one more shot and a corner kick before the clock ran out of time.

"Everybody played well, and I am so pleased with the attitude of this team," said Draksin. "They are fantastic, they play their hearts out. But these past few games have been a matter of luck. I just wonder when it will turn in our favor."

For the contest, GCU held the overall advantage in shots, 13-11, although Fullerton narrowly led in shots on goal, 5-4. 'Lopes keeper Joshua Zehring finished with two saves in the game.

"These non-conference games have helped prepare us for the conference," Draksin said. "We have to look at the conference slate as a chance to start over. We need to battle and give ourselves a chance to win the regular season title."

GCU will now travel to Colorado Springs, Colo., to open WAC play against Air Force on Saturday, Oct. 5 at 6 p.m. (Arizona time). Fans can follow the action by visiting www.gculopes.com.

 

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