SAN DIEGO —
Kai Martin continued his torrid start to the season with another brace, but Cal State Monterey Bay couldn't overcome a three-goal first-half response from Point Loma in a 4-2 setback Saturday afternoon at PLNU Soccer Field. The loss was the first of the season for the Otters, who cap off non-conference play at 4-1.
Martin provided both goals for Monterey Bay, recording his third brace through the first five matches of the season and pushing his team-leading total to six goals.
The Otters came out on the offensive and generated several early chances before Martin broke through in the 19th minute.
After forcing Point Loma goalkeeper Gonzalo Gurrola into a save in the fifth minute, Martin made his next opportunity count, finding the back of the net at the 18:43 mark to put CSUMB ahead, 1-0.
Point Loma answered quickly when Simon Sagal equalized in the 23rd minute before Evan Youngflesh gave the Sea Lions their first lead less than six minutes later. Cole Friesen added another in the 44th minute, turning CSUMB's early advantage into a 3-1 halftime deficit.
Monterey Bay wasted little time cutting into the deficit after the break. Once again, it was Martin.
The striker struck just 4:42 into the second half, completing his brace and pulling the Otters within one at 3-2. The goal gave Martin six on the season, with all six coming as part of multi-goal performances.
CSUMB continued to search for an equalizer, but Point Loma restored its two-goal advantage in the 63rd minute when Jack Merrill converted from the penalty spot to make it 4-2.
The Otters continued to press over the final 28 minutes but couldn't find another breakthrough.
Martin was dangerous throughout his 61 minutes on the pitch, finishing with four shots and putting three on goal.
Mason Ward added four attempts, while
Philip Wolny recorded three as CSUMB generated 15 shots overall.
Point Loma finished with a 19-15 advantage in shots and put 10 attempts on frame compared with six for Monterey Bay.
Griffin Welch made six saves in goal for the Otters.
CSUMB will open CCAA play on the road at Stanislaus State on Friday, Sept. 18. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m., at Warrior Stadium.
