SAN RAFAEL, Calif. - The Chico State men's team has been sharing the glory this season, as they toppled the Penguins in San Rafael behind a 57th-minute goal from Josh Moll that proved to be the decider. The Wildcats kicked off Thursday's game with a record of 3-1, and the Dominican University Penguins held a similar record of 3-1 before the single-goal defeat.

The Wildcats have had seven different goal scorers through their first five games, outscoring their opponents ten goals to two in their last four non-conference matchups. 

A solid start to the game saw Chico State peppering the Penguins with opportunities that could have seen them take the advantage early, but the home side's defense did an impressive job of keeping the score level at halftime. The closest opportunity for the Wildcats came in the 43rd minute as Owen Vasta showcased his speed on the right wing, collecting the ball on a sprint toward the Penguins keeper and striking the ball towards the left post. Still, quick reflexes from the man in goal saw it pushed away.

Despite new energy from the Penguins, Chico State still managed to outshoot them 13 to 11 shots, with seven of the Wildcat's chances forced a save. Owen Vasta and Robbie Lloyd shared the most shots, with three each, with Vasta hitting the frame of the goal with each chance in front of the net.

The game had been scoreless until the Wildcats lined up for a long throw from the right side of the field, which fell to the feet of Josh Moll at the top of the box—Moll still needed to do a little work to create a chance, was able to free up space for himself, striking it into the right side of the net to pull the Wildcats ahead in the 57th minute.

A desperate Penguins side chased any chance to equalize the game but failed to do so due in part to a five-save showing from Emanuel Padilla in the net and the 'Cats' defense that has held opponents to only two shots in four games and their second shutout of the season.

 Chico State will return home this Saturday, September 21st, for their upcoming match against PacWest opponents Menlo College, one of the three newest additions to the DII level. Kickoff at University Soccer Stadium will be at 7:00 PM under the lights.