WHITTIER- The University of La Verne men's soccer team was stopped by Whittier College 3-2 Saturday evening.

The only action of the first half was a crossing goal from Whittier in the 16th minute, but the Poets struck again in the first minute of the second, a quick tap in off a Whittier corner kick.

The Leopards (6-6, 4-4 SCIAC) brought themselves back within one goal after senior midfielder Fernando Almejo scored unassisted in the 78th minute. Another Whittier (7-3-1, 6-1-1 SCIAC) goal two minutes later nearly knocked La Verne out of contention, but senior midfielder David Gonzalez kept the Leos close in the 82nd minute with a short lob over the goalie from the wing. Neither team could muster another shot, however, before time expired.

Gonzalez led the offense with three shots and two on goal. Freshman goalie Dylan Roberts recorded seven saves.

La Verne was outshot 13-8 but did collect four corner kicks to Whittier's three.

La Verne will return to action Wednesday, traveling to Orange to face league rival Chapman University. Kick-off is slated for 4 p.m.