SEATTLE, Wash. - The Chico State men's soccer squad notched their first win of the season as they closed out their first trip with a 2-1 comeback victory over Seattle Pacific.

Senior Miles Rice replicated his performance last season against the Falcons after he scored two goals at home against the GNAC opponent in 2023. 

Rice led the Wildcats with three shots on goal, converting two into points on the board, in 53 minutes on the pitch. The Cameron Park native's two goals were slotted past the Falcons goalie within 20 seconds of each other, the fastest back-to-back goals of his career.

An 18th-minute goal from the home side put pressure on the Wildcats early into the match, but despite the scoreline, Chico State dominated much of the game—outshooting the home side 6-1 in shots after the first half and 14-4 overall after 90 minutes.

An outstanding defense save on the line behind Emanuel Padilla from Dawson White in the 70th minute kept the Wildcats in the game and helped secure the win. 

Justin Ricketts notched his first season assist with a perfectly weighted pass that stunned the Falcon's back line for Rice for the winning goal. Vasilios Syrengelas assisted the opening goal with his first of the season.

Chico State's defensive line was a cohesive unit, including the 'Cats that subbed in off the bench to receive their teammates for a break.

Emanuel Padilla was only called into action during much of the closing minutes, making a single save in his second start of the season.

The Wildcats are back at University Stadium for two more non-conference matchups, starting with Simon Fraser on Thursday, September 11th; kickoff is at 7 PM.