California Baptist University
2-4-2, 0-0-0
UC Riverside
0-6-2, 0-0-0
CBU and UCR Split Riverside Derby on Saturday Night
9/23/2023 11:21:00 PM | Men's Soccer
RIVERSIDE – The most recent iteration of the Crosstown Showdown did not disappoint as UC Riverside scored first, but California Baptist answered late to earn a 1-1 draw. The result of both teams' final non-conference match made them both one point, bumping CBU to 2-4-2 after eight games while UCR is still searching for their first win at 0-6-2.
"I thought tonight was a tired performance against a fresh and road-tested UCR side, but once we went down, I'm pleased with our response, and Leo's goal was the least we deserved. We had enough chances to win the game, but on the road at UCR is not an easy place to play, and in the end, I think a draw is fair," Head Coach Coe Michaelson said after the derby. He added, "We have had a difficult non-conference, but we are happy to put it behind us. It will be nice to have a bit of time to train and work on some things before we start conference next Sunday."
The first half was a lot of feeling out by both sides, combining for 11 shots but not many menacing as the first 45 minutes went by scoreless.
The second half was alive with much more action and potential as both teams combined for seven more shots and four more corners. The Lancers would not give up, though, sending eight of their nine second-half shots at the Highlander bench after that.
One would eventually find its way through all the traffic and into the net for a late equalizer. Leo Mendez was the recipient of some notably hard work from Antonio Gomez, who set Mendez up with the assist. Mendez used impressive footwork to create just enough space to rip a shot off and score in the 80th minute.
The Lancers would nearly claim another, catching the UCR keeper sleeping outside his box, but it wasn't to be.
The Lancers will now have eight days off before they take to the pitch again. CBU will open up Western Athletic Conference play at home, hosting the Lopes of Grand Canyon University on Sunday, October 1, at 6:00 p.m.
Team Stats
Edward Castro (1)
Assisted By: Jona Martinez
GOAL by UCR Castro, Edward Assist by Martinez, Jona.
49:54
Leo Mendez (2)
Assisted By: Luis Borrero
GOAL by CBU Mendez, Leo Assist by Borrero, Luis.
79:48
