SEASIDE, Calif. — Despite controlling much of the offensive action, the Cal State Monterey Bay men's soccer team saw its CCAA Tournament run come to an end Sunday afternoon, falling 2-1 to Menlo College in the quarterfinals at Cardinale Stadium.
The Otters (11-4-3) outshot Menlo 20-8 and held an 8-3 advantage in corner kicks, but a late goal by the Oaks broke a 1-1 tie and ended Monterey Bay's unbeaten home record.
After falling behind in the opening minutes, CSUMB responded with sustained offensive pressure, outshooting Menlo 11-5 in the first half. The Otters continued to press after halftime and found the equalizer in the 61st minute when
Mason Ward converted a penalty kick for his sixth goal of the season.
Monterey Bay continued to generate opportunities, but Menlo goalkeeper Vebjørn Madshus helped keep the match level before the Oaks scored the eventual game-winner in the 84th minute.
Ward led the Otter attack with five shots, including four on goal, while
Sylas Sells registered a match-high six attempts.
Philip Wolny added two shots on goal, and
Griffin Welch finished with three saves in goal.
The Otters will now await the NCAA Division II Men's Soccer Tournament Selection Show on Monday, Nov. 9, at 3:30 p.m. Pacific, streamed live on NCAA.com, to learn whether they will receive an at-large bid to the national tournament.
