Men’s soccer falls to Chaffey College

Matthew Gonzalez

Fullerton College men’s soccer played with intensity despite the heat wave bringing temperatures over 90 degrees, but still came up short against Chaffey College in a home match on Wednesday.

The Hornets (1-3) fell to the Panthers (2-2) in a 3-1 loss.

Fullerton College forward Josh Espinoza with a corner kick at home against Chaffey College on Wednesday, September 7, 2022.
Fullerton College forward Josh Espinoza with a corner kick at home against Chaffey College on Wednesday, September 7, 2022. Photo credit: Matthew Gonzalez

The only Fullerton goal came at the 87:00 minute mark, by sophomore forward Diego Anaya.

Panthers freshman goalkeeper Jonathan Zepeda faced six shots on goal from the Hornets and had five saves, including blocking two one-on-one opportunities. Hornets goal keepers defended three shots on goal and had zero saves.

The match saw one penalty foul. Chaffey defensive player Erick Nuno received a yellow card in the second period after a hard tackle on the Fullerton side of the field.

Hornets midfielder Cesar Zamora with the ball against the Panthers on Wednesday.
Hornets midfielder Cesar Zamora with the ball against the Panthers on Wednesday. Photo credit: Matthew Gonzalez

A highlight showing Hornets defensive potential came in the second half, when they were able to clear the ball during a play in which a Panthers player was set perfectly to shoot and score.

“We just need to continue to work and get better everyday, ” said head coach Greg Aviles.

Aviles expects his team to improve as they continue to grow and prepare for conference play in a few weeks.

The Hornets next home game is against Oxnard College Condors Tuesday, September 13, at 4 p.m.