The Grand Canyon University men's soccer team (5-12-3, 2-6-2 WAC) concluded their 2014 campaign with a 3-0 loss to visiting Omaha (10-5-2, 2-3-1 Summit League) in a non-conference matchup tonight on the GCU Soccer Field. The Mavericks recently clinched a share of the Summit League regular season crown.

Prior to kickoff, the Antelopes honored their senior class, including Kyle Summerhill, Jan Chvojan, Courage Chirandu, Yared Solscheid, and Ante Spajic.

"We made some strides this season," said head coach Petar Draksin. "Our schedule was much tougher this year and we have battled through many injuries. But that's sports and it happens. Obviously, the strides weren't big enough, but we have a lot of great returners coming back next year."

"Omaha is a very good team, and they had a great year in the Summit League," added Draksin.

The two squads were even with 15 shots apiece, including five shots on goal. Niki Jackson led GCU's offensive effort with three shots on the night, while Chirandu, Amare Thomas, Alexander Ramirez, Jose Vasquez, and Chvojan each added two.

The Mavericks opened their 3-0 lead in the first half despite GCU holding the 7-6 shot advantage.

Felipe da Silva opened the scoring in the ninth minute on an assist from Vance Rookwood. Seven minutes later, Rookwood made it a 2-0 game after lobbing a free kick off the foot of Logan Mendez into the back of the net.

The Mavericks added another score in the 22^nd minute, this time when Xavier Gomez pushed the ball past GCU keeper Kendyl Day on an assist from Mark Moulton.

Neither team scored in the second half, with Omaha holding the slight 9-8 lead in shots taken. The Lopes had several chances to get on the board over the final 45 minutes, putting four of their shots on target, but Mavericks keeper Joseph Ghitis collected five saves on the night to secure the shutout.

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