Facing a tremendous test in the A.I.I. Conference Semifinals against the #2 team in the nation, Cougar men's soccer gave its fans plenty to be proud of, putting forth a great effort but ultimately falling 4-1.

 

Fifth-seeded CSUSM closes out its season with a 12-4-2 record, the best in the program's five year history. Top seed Simon Fraser improves to 18-1-0 and will play in Saturday's A.I.I. Championship game.

 

Though Simon Fraser pulled away late, much of Thursday's game was far closer than the scoreboard would indicate. CSUSM had an early chance, with Simon Fraser clearing a ball off the goal line in a scoreless game. The Clan took the game's first lead in the 15^th minute, scoring on a terrific strike from just outside the penalty area. But the Cougars would answer early in the second half, with Erik Mueller heading in a Jake Kaiser corner for the second straight match.

 

With the match tied 1-1 in the second half, it was truly anybody's game, but the powerful Clan proved too much in the end. They scored in the 74^th, 81^st, and 90^th minute to make it a 4-1 final.

 

For Coach Ron Pulvers, his team gave all he could ask of them.

 

“I am really proud of the effort today, especially given the difficult of the quarterfinal match less than 24 hours earlier,” commented Pulvers. “The team was alert, active, and tireless through the first 70 minutes. It was a great collective effort.”

 

Several Cougar fans made the trip to Phoenix to cheer their team on. Throughout this season, the squad's effort, perseverance, and on-field success has given the University plenty to be proud of.

 

“This was one of the most enjoyable teams I have ever coached,” said Pulvers. “They represent CSUSM with incredible pride, spirit, and class. I am incredibly proud of this group and feel lucky to be their coach.”

 

It was the final match for three seniors: goalkeeper Kevin Ernst, captain Dan Sims, and captain Bradley Seidenglanz. All three have not only been starters, but leaders on this team for the last four years.

 

“Our seniors have so much to be proud of,” said Pulvers. “Their work on the field has laid the stepping stones for a winning tradition, and more importantly they have created a culture that emphasizes quality values, sound opinions, and positive spirit that will carry on indefinitely. These three young men can hold their heads high and be extremely proud of their contributions to CSUSM Soccer.”

 

The young team will continue to build on that tradition when they come back in the spring, and Cougar fans will continue to have a lot to look forward to from CSUSM Soccer!