Every year from now on, when Mikey Hirsch returns to Chico for the Men's Soccer Alumni Weekend, he will do so with his head held high and a smile that says: "I never lost to Sonoma State." Hirsch has played a critical role in the Wildcats' 3-0-1 record against the Seawolves since his collegiate career kicked off in 2006. He assisted on the 89th-minute match winner as a freshman. And Sunday, he scored the match winner in a 1-0 win against the Seawolves that leaves the Wildcats on the precipice of a California Collegiate Athletic Association Tournament berth.
Hirsch also had an assist in the Wildcats' 6-0 win at Stanislaus State Wednesday night. Chico State improved to 10-4-0 overall and 6-4-0 in the CCAA with the 2-0 week, while Hirsch earned Wildcat of the Week recognition.
The senior from Elk Grove tied for the team lead in assists with his dime to Garrett Hogbin from the left flank Wednesday night. Sunday, he positioned himself in the right place at the right time. Servando Higuera served a ball into the box that Justin Bethke headed off the crossbar from six yards out. It deflected to Hirsch, who was at a tough angle wide of the left post. But the senior took his time and threaded a right-footed blast between the recovering keeper and near post in the 20th minute for his first goal of the season and the third of his career. Hirsch has seven career assists.
Hirsch will make his 15th straight start Thursday at 4:30 when the Wildcats host Cal State East Bay. He and six fellow seniors will be honored in a "Senior Day" celebration prior to Sunday's 2 p.m. home finale.
