BELLINGHAM, Wash. - The Chico State men's soccer opened up their 2024 fall season with a non-conference matchup against the Vikings of Western Washington on their turf in the Pacific Northwest. The result did not tip in favor of the Wildcats, as the home side tapped in a late game-winner in the 78th minute, which sealed it for the Vikings.

The opening half gave both teams few opportunities to open the score line; Emanuel Padilla called to make a single save in the first half. Padilla recorded five saves total in the first outing for the 'Cats.

Two of the Wildcat's best chances came in the second half, with Carlos Zuniga finding space at the top of the Viking's box and trying to slide it into the low post, which saw the gloves of the keeper. Senior Preston Moll, just minutes later, dished a dangerous free kick into the center of the box, but the home side defended it well, seeing the ball into their keeper's possession.

Moll would have a second chance at a free kick from the same spot on the field just minutes later, whipping a ball into the box with even more of a chance of being tapped into the net, only to slide past all crashing bodies and tap the left post to bounce away from the goal. 

An unlucky free-bouncing ball in Chico State's box saw the Vikings taking the 1-0 lead late into the game.

With a long season ahead of the Wildcats, they will shift their focus onto Seattle Pacific on Saturday, looking to close their trip with a win. On Thursday, the Falcons picked up a significant 2-0 victory over fellow CCAA member Sonoma State. Kickoff between Chico State and SPU will be at 1 p.m. in Seattle.