Early in his third season in the Chico State men's soccer program, Triston Montoya finally got to make his first start on Friday. A courageous play and bloody beak ensured he wasn't quite able to finish the match. But he made a lasting impression, nonetheless, netting Wildcat of the Week honors.
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Montoya, a sophomore from Yuba City, was only forced to make one save during the Wildcats' 2-1 win against Holy Names in their 2015 home opener. But he made sure of that with good timing and instincts on crosses and other balls played into the box. The goal Montoya allowed was a penalty kick given after he mowed over a Holy Names player in a collision near the top of the box after punching the ball out of danger.
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Montoya made more contact late in the match, likely saving a goal in the process. The play resulted in a nasty collision and bloodied nose. Montoya was forced to exit the match with 3:50 remaining. But he made a fine impression on Head Coach Felipe Restrepo.
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"A lot of guys would shrink back in that situation," Restrepo said. "But he took the hit. That was a really good play to cap a really good day for Triston. He was also a very strong leader out there."
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Montoya and the Wildcats will open CCAA play this weekend with matches at Humboldt State Friday at 3 p.m. and Sonoma State Sunday at 2.
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Chico State's conference home opener is against Cal State East Bay on Friday, Oct. 2, at 7 p.m.
