LA JOLLA – Still searching for its first conference win, the Chico State traveled to UC San Diego Sunday hoping for a good result. But the 21^st-ranked Tritons and the Wildcats' sixth straight road match over an 18-day period proved to be too much to overcome in a 2-0 loss.
 
The Tritons' Sam Palano netted a brace, scoring in the 21^st minute and 58^th minute, as the hosts improved to 6-1-1 overall and 1-1-0 in the California Collegiate Athletic Association.
 
Chico State fell to 1-4-3 overall and 0-2-2 in the CCAA.
 
Chico State outshot the hosts 9-8 but Tritons goalkeeper Cameron McElfresh saved all three of the Wildcats' shots on goal. Omar Nuño had two of the Wildcats shots on goal and Alex Fluitt the other. Mikey Hirsch led the teams with three shots.
 
Chico State goalkeeper Damion Lewis, the victim of both Tritons goals, made a trio of saves. Luke Dennison, who played every minute in goal for the Wildcats two seasons ago, made his first appearance of the season and made one save in 17-plus scoreless minutes.
 
The Wildcats will now play four straight at home and six of their last eight beginning Friday night against Cal State San Bernardino at 7 p.m.