PUEBLO, Colo.: The Chico State men's soccer team fought a good fight in Saturday night's thriller against the Thunderwolves of CSU Pueblo in Colorado. The weather was tame, but the bitterness of Colorado winter began to shift in as the match progressed, and the Wildcats could not hold onto their late-game lead as overtime saw the Thunderwolves advancing.

The 2022 NCAA National Runners-up and RMAC Champions were a strong side of players across the globe, made up of a large group of veteran players. 

Chico State came out strong, putting the hosts on their heels for a large chunk of the first half, but couldn't quite put a chance away. Of the two chances the Wildcats had in the first half, bodies flew in front of the strikes to divert the danger from the 'Cats.

Emanuel Padilla played an outstanding match in goal for the Wildcats, making five critical saves in front of the net with danger looming around. His defensive line battled until the final whistle, battering away crosses and technical strikers, holding the game at scoreless through eighty-one minutes. 

Noah Ross broke the deadlock in the second half with an incredible contested header from a perfectly floated cross from Adrian Fontanelli. The senior duo connected one final time on the pitch as they transition into life past Chico State. 

Noah Ross ends his senior season with a career-best three goals in a season and six across his career. 

Adrian Fontanelli ended his senior season with nine assists and his career with 13 assists, scoring five goals.

The Thunderwolves forced the match into overtime, where they took the lead with 5 minutes remaining and will advance to play the winner of Midwestern State and Fort Lewis.

The Chico State Wildcats finish their 2023 campaign 11-2-7 overall, scoring 32 goals and only allowing thirteen in 20 games across all competition. They will return 32 players for the 2024 season and will look to repeat their successful season and grow on the accomplishments they earned throughout the fall. #wildcatfamily