by Cyanna Rosa

LA VERNE, CA- The University of La Verne men's soccer team opened the 2022 season at Ortmayer Stadium Thursday afternoon, against the St. Katherine Firebirds. 

La Verne held control of the ball for the majority of the game, but couldn't quite find their rhythm. Setting up the play every time, La Verne had 12 attempted shots compared to St. Katherine's 5. The sole penalty kick of the night secured St Katherine's winning goal and a final 1-0 score. Leopard keeper Hector Duenas-Pena held down the net for La Verne, saving 5 St. Katherine shot attempts.  

Some notable star La Verne midfielders patrolled the offensive half of the field. Sophomore, Joel Trejo, had the most shots of the night, with a total of 4. Senior, Christain Ibarra, followed suit with two attempts for the afternoon. With La Verne firing off 6 attempts each half, St Katherine had to fight hard for their win, ending the no-score streak with just under 20 minutes left in the game. 

La Verne's dominance bodes well for their next home game against Berry this Saturday at 7pm, here, at Ortmayer Stadium.