Garrett Hogbin scored a magnificent goal and helped make sure that neither of the Chico State men's soccer team's opponents scored at all during a pair of important victories last week. Hogbin, one of the team's defensive center backs, earned Wildcat of the Week honors for his efforts.
Chico State's defense ranks sixth in the nation in goals-against average and eighth in shutout percentage, and Hogbin has been a huge reason why. The sophomore from Mission Viejo has started every match for the Wildcats (12-4-1) and been on the pitch for all but 63 minutes this season as they've racked up 10 shutouts, including five in the last six matches.
Two of those shutouts came last week. The Wildcats limited Cal State San Marcos to 10 shots (six on goal) in Thursday's 1-0 victory. Sunday, in a 2-0 win against UC San Diego, the Wildcats allowed only seven shots (four on goal).
But Hogbin has been a contributer on the offensive attack as well. His goal Saturday was his third of the season. He's also delivered an assist.
The Wildcats already led 1-0 when Hogbin doubled the advantage, getting his boot on Fabian Roman's long free kick miliseconds before it landed in the arms of the Tritons' goalkeeper, sending it into the netting inside the far post.
Hogbin and the Wildcats will look to beat UC San Diego again Tuesday night in a CCAA Tournament opening-round match at 6 p.m. at University Soccer Stadium.
