In the first half, SJSU was aggressive early and controlled the tempo of play immediately. In the first 10 minutes they bombarded the Redhawk box, tallying five shots, including a Roberto Casteneda shot that hit the post 32 seconds into the game. Despite the immediate pressure, the Seattle U defense responded and remained composed.
Following the immediate pressure from SJSU, SU began to push the ball out of their box. Midway through the first half, play began to transfer between sides. Senior Sean Morris (Bothell, Wash.) ignited the Redhawk offense with their first shot of the game in the 19th minute. Kyle Peterman (Boise, Idaho) sent in SU's first shot on target, but San Jose State's 'keeper Jonathan Lester was able to get his gloves on the ball.
As the first period progressed, Seattle U began to find their rhythm. Their offensive game complemented their defense, as they were able to set up several different opportunities in the Spartan box. The Redhawks were edged 11-10 by SJSU in shots, but had five on frame to San Jose State's three.
After an evenly played first half, San Jose State was able to take control midway through the final period of regulation. The Spartans took a 1-0 lead in the 60th minute when Dylan Murphy crossed the ball to Nick Cukar, who shot it in to the lower right corner. It would prove to be the difference maker and game-winner. After conceding the go-ahead goal, Seattle U fired off eight shots, including a pair of shots on goal from Peterman in the final minute of play, but they were unable to see the back of the net.
"We had chances to tie the game after letting up the goal in the second half, but we weren't able to," said head coach Brad Agoos. "We give San Jose State credit. They were able to finish their chance and ride it out to get the win."
In the game, Seattle U and San Jose State each had 19 shots, with SU tallying 10 shots on goal to SJSU's six. Between the pipes, Redhawk goalkeeper Jake Feener (Rocklin, Calif.) had five saves in the contest.
SU (3-7-3 overall, 1-3-1 MPSF) will remain on the road this upcoming week. They will look to rebound with conference matches at New Mexico and UNLV. The Redhawks will take on the Lobos of New Mexico on Friday, Oct. 22, in a 6 p.m. PT contest at Albuquerque, N.M. Two days later, Seattle U will head to Las Vegas, Nev. to square off with Rebels of UNLV in a 1 p.m. PT match.