MERCED, Calif. – Jake Perkins delivered a 90th minute game-winning goal and the University of California, Merced men's soccer team beat Chico State 1-0 on Sunday afternoon to win its first ever CCAA match.
The Bobcats (2-8-3, 1-5-1) game-winning goal was scored by Perkins with 35 seconds remaining. It marked his first career goal and the latest regulation game-winning goal in program history.
Also of note, Sunday was Senior Day and UC Merced has now won on 13 consecutive Senior Days dating back to 2014.
Perkins hit his one-timer from the corner of the goal area sneaking his shot near post. Christian Gallo was credited with his first assist as a Bobcat. Braxton Fleming started the goal scoring sequence with a strong throw-in into the area.
Abel Calvillo earned his first shutout in a UC Merced uniform and recorded a career-high seven saves. He made a leaping save just below crossbar in the tenth minute and made a similar save in the 86th minute which the latter ultimately resulted in Calvillo's clean sheet. He made a diving save early in the second half. Calvillo is the eighth Bobcat in program history to register a solo shutout.
The Bobcats defense remained strong despite being outshot 14-12 to earn the first shutout since September 6.
UC Merced's offense came on late in the match with nine of the 12 shots coming in the final 12 minutes. Head coach Albert Martins' team also earned four corner kicks in that same timeframe and won the corner kick battle overall 8-6.
Thomas Knierieme recorded three shots down the stretch. Christian Khanishian and Braxton Fleming challenged the keeper into a save. Fleming's shot was just punched over the crossbar in the 87th minute.
The Bobcats kept putting the pressure on and got the win with Perkins' game-winner.
Khanishian played the full 90 minutes for the second straight match. Jesus Ponce earned his first start of the year.
Seniors Edwin Casillas, Jimmy Perkins, Salvador Plancarte, and Knierieme were celebrated prior to the match.
Up next, UC Merced will host Cal Poly Humboldt on Friday, October 31. Kickoff from Bobcat Field in Merced, Calif., is scheduled for 3:00pm.
