SANTA CLARA, Calif. (Los Angeles, Calif.) – Up against the No. 1 team in the country, the Santa Clara men's soccer team held its own for 110 minutes to draw a 0-0 tie with UCLA during the Bruins' home opener on Friday night. Bronco goalkeeper Kendall McIntosh's three saves helped tally his third consecutive shutout of the season.
The Broncos move to 3-1-1 after the first draw of the 2014 season and continue their Southern Californian road trip at UC Riverside on Sun., Sept. 14 at 7 p.m. UCLA moves to a 3-1-1 overall record.
"We approached the match with a huge emphasis on staying organized," said Santa Clara head coach Cameron Rast. "We wanted to make it difficult for the opponent to play their game while being patient for the right moments to score. We are growing as a team and learning how to play in tight matches and not concede goals. Overall, our performance tonight says that we can compete with the top teams in the country and do well."
The Broncos attempted seven shots against No. 1 UCLA and Steve Eneme and Edson Cardona were able to put two on frame. Goalkeeper Kendall McIntosh made three saves for the Broncos and remained strong defending the Bruins' 17 attempted shots, resulting in his third consecutive shutout.
On its home turf, UCLA started off the match with a flurry of offensive attacks. Three shots and three Bruin corner kicks were tried in the first 11 minutes.
Santa Clara found a good opportunity in the first half when Eneme played a skillful through ball to create a breakaway chance for junior James Huffer. Then in the second half, Cardona had two dangerous shots that just skimmed over the post.
Under the control and organization of their veteran goalkeeper, the Broncos remained solid on the defensive side throughout regulation and both overtime periods to hold off the top team in the nation.
"Tonight, we stayed very organized and did not allow a goal. UCLA had good looks and the men executed the game plan well," said Rast. "Kendall was solid locking down the shutdown and controlling us defensively. For Sunday, we hope to continue to get a little bit better at holding possession and attacking."
Santa Clara is now 9-16-6 all-time against UCLA with their previous meeting in 2011 also ending in a draw after two overtime periods.
Game Notes: A total of five yellow card cautions were given … attendance totaled 1248.
Game Notes – Sun., Sept. 14 @ 7 p.m.
Santa Clara vs. UC Riverside in Riverside, Calif. (UC Riverside Soccer Stadium)
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