MERCED, Calif. — Cal State Monterey Bay continued its strong run of form Friday evening, using three second-half goals and another outstanding defensive performance to blank UC Merced, 3-0, in CCAA men's soccer action at Bobcat Field.
The victory extended the Otters' unbeaten streak to three matches (2-0-1), while CSUMB has now earned a result in five of its last six contests (2-1-3). Monterey Bay improved to 6-2-3 overall and 2-1-3 in CCAA play, picking up its second consecutive conference victory.
Goalkeeper
Jerry Godfryd continued his impressive return to the lineup, recording his second consecutive shutout in just his second appearance of the season. Godfryd turned away all five shots on goal he faced, making two saves in the opening half and three more after the break.
Since making his season debut against Cal State Dominguez Hills, Godfryd has played all 180 minutes without allowing a goal, collecting 10 saves and back-to-back clean sheets.
After a scoreless opening half, the CSUMB attack came alive in the second period.
Samir Warner broke the deadlock in the 57th minute, finishing a scoring opportunity created by
Cam Fisk and
Josh Moll. The goal was Warner's second of the season and gave Monterey Bay the advantage it would not relinquish.
The Otters continued applying pressure before breaking through twice in the closing eight minutes.
Sylas Sells doubled the lead in the 83rd minute, scoring his third goal of the season off assists from
Liam Rawson and
Philip Wolny.
Just under three minutes later, Wolny put the finishing touches on the victory, scoring his fourth goal of the year in the 86th minute.
Mason Ward and Rawson assisted on the play, giving Rawson two assists in the contest.
CSUMB finished with a 13-12 advantage in shots, including an 8-5 edge in shots on goal. The Otters generated nine of their 13 attempts after halftime, with Sells leading the attack with six shots, five of which were on frame.
Wolny finished with a goal and an assist, while Rawson contributed two assists in just 29 minutes of action.
Defensively, Godfryd and the Otter back line continued to provide stability.
Damon Smith and Fisk played all 90 minutes, while
Jacob Burnison logged 87 minutes as Monterey Bay secured its second straight clean sheet.
CSUMB returns home Sunday, Oct. 11, to host Chico State at Cardinale Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m.
