Box Score RIVERSIDE, CALIF. – The Embry-Riddle men's soccer team swept the Cal Pac Championships this season, clinching the tournament title with its win over UC Merced on Saturday night. The Eagles added to the trophy case from earlier this season, where they clinched the Cal Pac Regular Season Championship two weeks ago.
Fresh off his three-goal performance in the semifinal on Thursday, Alex Frances broke the scoring open on Saturday to give Embry-Riddle a 1-0 lead. Frances struck in the 27th minute off an excellent assist from Lucas Garcia.
The Eagles were able to add right before the half, as Paul Fulop scored with 43 seconds before the break. Fulop was able to finish a great feed from Djougher Oliveira, and ERAU got an all-important two-goal lead.
That lead was cut in half at 80:07, making the last ten minute of the game extremely competitive. The Eagles were able to defend well, and took the 2-1 victory to bring home its second trophy of the season thus far.
UC Merced turned up its offensive pressure in the second half, as they took six of its seven shots in the final 45 minutes. Elias Ammon was key in that final half, as he made four great saves when the Bobcats had a chance to swing momentum.
The Eagles will now await to see where they will travel for the NAIA National Tournament Opening Rounds. The men's soccer national championship show is scheduled for Monday, November 14.
