LA VERNE, Calif. — Rey Julian Castillo scored two hat tricks, but the Leopards dropped two games Saturday afternoon at Las Flores Park in the Inland Empire Classic.
Game One: Concordia 13, La Verne 11
The Leopards fought back to within two but couldn't make up the first half deficit, dropping the first game of the Inland Empire Classic. Rey Julian Castillo and Joshua Vega each scored a hat trick for the Leopards. Rex Sample added two goals of his own
After heading into halftime trailing 6-3, the Leopards rallied for four goals in the third quarter but also gave up four goals to the Eagles' attack. La Verne outscored Concordia in the final period 4-3 but couldn't get any closer.
Concordia was led by Angel Rojas who finished the game with four goals. Ian Hernandez had a busy game in the cage, totaling 11 saves in the match.
Evan Monterroso, Mike Meza, and Joey Sabers each added one goal. Jason Russum, Josh Vega, and Castillo all finished with an assist.
Game Two: No. 15 Cal Baptist 22, La Verne 11
The Leopards had a trio of players score three goals in the second game of the doubleheader, but the No. 15 Lancers pulled away late to beat La Verne. Russum and Meza each scored three goals in the effort. Castillo scored his second hat trick of the day.
Castillo has scored at least three goals in each of the Leopards' first four games. He leads the team with 17 goals this season. Vega and Jeremy Rocha each chipped in one goal.
Goalie Ian Hernandez finished the game with nine saves to go with two steals.
Next Game: The Leopards next open SCIAC play on the road on Wednesday, September 20 at 7 p.m. against the Chapman Panthers.
