Pacific Men’s Soccer Set for Key Match Against CSU Bakersfield
The Pacific men’s soccer team is gearing up for a crucial matchup against CSU Bakersfield this Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Knoles Field, marking their final game before the onset of conference play. The Tigers (2-2-2) are optimistic heading into this contest, having gone unbeaten in their last four encounters with the Roadrunners (2-2-2) since 2019, holding a favorable all-time record of 4-2-1 against them.
Head coach Adam Reeves emphasizes the importance of this game, recognizing the competitive spirit of the Big West teams. "This is another important match that we need to approach with focus. The players know what is at stake and need to execute our game plan effectively," said Reeves. The energy of playing at home adds to the stakes, as the team looks to build momentum ahead of the start of the conference.
Key players for Pacific include fifth-year striker Vinzent Zingel, who leads the team with two goals from just three shots on target. Junior Jose Maria Barrera has been a consistent offensive contributor, leading the team in shots on goal (seven) and showcasing his dedication by attempting at least one shot in every game this season.
In defense, senior goalkeeper Joshua Moya has been a standout, exhibiting his skills with an impressive .865 save percentage and a stellar 0.83 goals against average. His three shutouts illustrate his pivotal role in keeping the Tigers competitive, ranking first among West Coast Conference goalkeepers in key metrics such as save percentage and saves per game (5.33).
Additionally, junior Luca Baltzer and senior Emmanuel Obiefuna have been reliable anchors on defense, having participated in every minute of play thus far. Baltzer has also contributed offensively, scoring from a penalty kick in their last game, which helped Pacific secure a 1-1 draw against Sacramento State.
On the other side, CSU Bakersfield, like Pacific, boasts a .500 record with notable victories over Utah Tech and then-No. 18 Portland. Their most recent outing ended in a 1-1 draw with Gonzaga, highlighting their competitive resilience.
Fans can catch the game live on ESPN+ with Dennis Ackerman on commentary, providing an exciting viewing experience for supporters.
For ongoing updates and insights into Pacific’s journey throughout the season, follow the team on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter) @PacificMSoccer and Instagram @pacificmsoccer. Be part of the community and stay connected through the official Facebook page, Pacific Men’s Soccer, to share in the achievements and challenges of this dynamic team.
As the Tigers prepare to clash with the Roadrunners, the anticipation is palpable. With stellar performances from both seasoned and emerging talents, Pacific aims not only to maintain their unbeaten streak against CSU Bakersfield but also to set a strong precedent as they transition into the competitive landscape of conference play.
Prepare for an exhilarating evening of soccer as Pacific takes the field, ready to showcase their skill, determination, and passion for the game. Join the excitement and support your local team as they strive for victory!
