ROHNERT PARK – If the collection of newcomers on the Chico State men’s soccer roster don’t understand what playing for the Wildcats is all about yet, they’re about to find out. The Wildcats play on the road for the first time in 2012 Friday at bitter rival Sonoma State in what’s sure to be a spirited match between two of the favorites for the California Collegiate Athletic Association North Division title. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m.

The host Seawolves have climbed to No. 3 in the West and No. 18 in the national rankings thanks to a 5-1 start (4-0 CCAA) including three consecutive shutouts. The two-time defending North Division Champion Wildcats are 3-2-1 overall and 2-1-1 in the CCAA.

The Wildcats have shown signs of the talent it will take to make it three consecutive North Division crowns, but inexperience and a number of near misses have lead to an up-and-down start to the season.

These rivals have split the season series each of the past two years. The Wildcats have won three of their last five against the Seawolves, however, on the strength of their 2-0 victory over Sonoma State in the opening round of the 2010 NCAA Championship Tournament West Regional.

A live stat link for the match is available in the calendar section of chicowildcats.com.