Box Score  Coming off a lackluster 1-0 loss at home to #18 Concordia, Cal State San Marcos men's soccer was staring squarely at falling back to .500 on the season as they entered Saturday's road match against an even higher-ranked foe, #12 Master's College.

Instead, the Cougars showed the heart, determination, and spirit that has become the trademark of the program, earning a hard-fought 0-0 tie in two overtimes.

The Cougars are now 5-4-1 on the year.  Master's is 7-0-1.

It's a very positive result for CSUSM, who among other things proved that they could stay out of their own way for 110 minutes against a high quality side.  The Cougars have played long stretches of very good soccer this year, and almost always bring the intensity, but when facing top competition have made a habit of making one or two crucial mistakes that have swung the match towards their opponent.

That would not be the case on Saturday for Coach Ron Pulvers' squad.  CSUSM was out-shot 13-19 but held a 7-3 corner kick advantage, and committed 60% of the game's fouls (20-13).  For teams with a lot of technical skill, the Cougars pose specific problems because their tough, physical style of play can neutralize finesse players.

Kiki Castro made 7 saves to pick up the well-earned shutout in net.  Max Blumenshine, Jordan Shadeed, Erik Mueller, Richie Kaiser, and Alex Brunsell played the full 110 minutes.

CSUSM will be at home on Tuesday to take on San Diego Christian, starting at 4:00 PM.