The Chico State men's soccer team trailed 1-0 on the road in what was basically a must-win match. The Wildcats were in serious need of a lift. Esten Schroeder gave it to them, and earned Wildcat of the Week honors in the process. Schroeder notched an assist on the match-tying goal, drew a penalty kick to set up the go-ahead strike, and then scored the team's third goal as Chico State rallied for a 4-1 win Sunday at Cal State East Bay.
Â
Schroeder was as unstoppable a force as Mother Nature Sunday. Foggy and rainy conditions were the story of the match before Schroeder stole the show.
Â
The sophomore midfielder had his dangerous shot saved in the 36th minute, but Mikey Hirsch hit a successful rebound from the top of the six-yard box to tie the score. A little more than two minutes later, Schroeder dribbled down the left side, beat a defender, and was fouled in the box to earn a penalty kick. Frankie Palmer converted for a 2-1 lead.
Â
Schroeder struck again less than three minutes into the second stanza. Alex Fluitt crossed to Schroeder, who buried it for his second goal of the season.
Â
Schroeder is now tied for second on the team with two goals and five points.
Â
The Wildcats, winners of five of their last six, will wrap up the regular season at home this weekend against Sonoma State (Friday at 4:30 p.m.) and Humboldt State (Sunday at 11:30 a.m.).
