Weekly Release: CSU Bakersfield
This Week for the Redhawks: The Seattle University men's soccer team (1-4-2) will open MPSF competition this weekend at Cal State Bakersfield (4-0-4). SU's conference opener is set for Sunday, Oct. 2 at 1 p.m.
Last Time Out: The Redhawks had the opportunity to upset then-No. 13 UCLA on Sept. 23, but a late second half goal by the Bruins edged SU 2-1 in LA. Two days later, Seattle U dropped a 3-0 decision to Cal State Northridge.
On Deck: SU currently is amidst a five-game road swing. They travel next to Northern California for matches at San Jose State (Oct. 7) and Sacramento State (Oct. 9).
Follow the Redhawks: For the most up-to-date news and information about the SU men's soccer team, please log onto GoSeattleU.com. Live stats will be available for free via GoSeattleU.com for this weekend's action.
Ranked Opponents: The Redhawks have faced three ranked opponents in 2011, nearly defeating No. 13/18 UCLA, 2-1, on Sept. 23. They dropped a 3-1 decision to then-No. 9 UCSB on Aug. 27, before taking then-No. 23 UW to a scoreless draw on Sept. 11.
Season Debuts: Senior midfielder Tyler Hanson made his season debut off the bench at UCLA on Sept. 23, and started and played the full 90 minutes at CSU Northridge two days later. At CSUN, junior transfer goalkeeper Marshall Reese made his SU debut in goal in the second half. He tallied three saves in 27 minutes of work.
California Dreamin': Between Sept. 23 through Oct. 9, the Redhawks will play five consecutive matches in California.
MPSF Opener: Sunday's match will mark the Redhawks MPSF season opener. They will host five conference games at Championship Field, while playing five on the road to conclude regular season action.
Roussos Scores: At then-No. 13 UCLA, senior defender Demaci Roussos scored his first goal of the season off a penalty kick opportunity. His 65th minute goal evened the game 1-1.
Snap that Skid: The Redhawks will look to snap their three-game skid this weekend at CSUB.
The Newbies: The Redhawk roster boasts 14 newcomers, with freshman Travis Heim leading the squad with a pair of goals and an assist.
Elliot's Notes: Follow tri-captain Elliot Richards' blog throughout the season on GoSeattleU.com. He'll give readers the inside scoop on the men's soccer program.
The Captains: The men's soccer captains for the 2011 season are: Marshall Kosaka, Elliot Richards and Demaci Roussos.
Scouting CSU Bakersfield: CSU Bakersfield opens conference action ranking No. 8 in the Far West Region poll and riding an eight-game unbeaten streak. The Roadrunners are 4-0-4 on the season and are coming off a scoreless draw at Cal State Fullerton on Sept. 28.
Gyasi Zardes leads the offense and is one of the top scorers in the nation with 11 goals. He also has an assist for 23 points in eight matches. Jesus Sanchez is the team's assist leader, with five.
In goal, Eric Shannon has started in all eight games. He's sporting a 0.68 goals against average, 25 saves and three shutouts. Anthony Perez has seen 10 minutes of action in one match, as well.
The Last Time Seattle U Faced CSU Bakersfield: The Redhawks were 1-1 with the Roadrunners in 2010. On Oct. 3, CSUB earned a 1-0 shutout in Seattle to open MPSF play. Seattle U concluded the regular season in Bakersfield and snapped a two-game skid with a 1-0 shutout victory off a Marshall Kosaka 95th minute strike.