SAN FRANCISCO—The way the defenses were playing, it seemed as though it would take some magic for an offense to break through in Sunday's matchup between Chico State and San Francisco State at Cox Stadium in San Francisco. It was the Gators that pulled the golden goal out of their hats.
San Francisco State put three straight perfect passes together on a long counter attack in the third minute of the first overtime to snap Chico State's four-match win and shutout streaks in a 1-0 victory.
Chico State slipped to 10-4-1 overall and 7-3-0 in the California Collegiate Athletic Association. San Francisco State wrapped up its regular season with a record of 10-3-3 overall and 7-3-2 in the CCAA, securing a berth in the CCAA Tournament in the process.
The Wildcats had allowed only six shots, and only two on goal, prior to the winner.
After a slow start, Chico State's offense got things rolling after intermission, getting off 10 shots in the second half, four of which were saved. Cooper Renteria's try in the 92nd minute was also saved, and Alex Fluitt's shot from the far right wing was blocked 30 seconds prior to the match winner.
Chico State, which wrapped up a CCAA Tournament berth with Wednesday's win at Stanislaus State, dipped into a tie for fourth in the conference standings with two to play. However, a first-round bye (top-two finish in the conference standings) or first-round home match (awarded to the third- and fourth-place teams) are still very much in play.
The Wildcats host Cal State San Marcos Thursday night at 7 p.m. on Wildcat Food Pantry night. Fans are asked to bring a donation to support the Hungry Wildcat Food Pantry, which exists to support the estimated 4,000 Chico State students who face food insecurity. Canned and boxed foods, hygiene products and cash donations will all be accepted. The pantry is currently in need of canned protein (black and refried beans, chicken, and fish), canned meals (stews, chili, soups), hygiene products, and healthy snacks (protein bars, nuts, dried fruit).
You can also text "chicocares" to 71777 to make a monetary donation.
Saturday, the Wildcats' senior class will be honored prior to a 2 p.m. kickoff versus UC San Diego in the regular-season finale for both teams. The CCAA Tournament begins the following Tuesday night.
