It’s been a tough start for the Sacramento State men’s soccer team this year as going into this game they were 0-5-1 with the one tie occurring last weekend at UC Riverside with a score of 2-2.

Today at Hornet Field they faced the St. Mary’s Gaels, an opponent the Hornets haven’t faced in almost two years. Both teams were very evenly matched and the game was a defense battle, especially in the first period as both teams only attempted two shots which weren’t even on goal.

Hornet defender Kyle Beasley attempted a header but it sailed wide, it was also the best attempt at the half. The Hornets came out of the locker room after the half looking focused but the second half looked like the first as neither team even got a shot attempt off for the first 15 minutes.

Then with a series of corner kicks the Hornets had great chances to score.

During this series Freshman mid-fielder Fernando Cabadas’ blocked head shot was the only attempt. With about 15 minutes left in the game and a tie looking like it would be the outcome Gael’s mid-fielder Dylan Leslie served up a assist to mid-fielder David Blanchard, who headed it in past Hornet keeper Nick Gargiulo, who was playing with a bad shoulder.

With a 1-0 lead the pressure fell on the Hornets and they couldn’t respond back. This game was one of those “tough man” games as both teams were very physical. The best example of this was the number of fouls committed by both teams as the Hornets committed 14 to the Gaels 11.

This loss has to hurt the Hornets whose last game ended in a tie and a feeling that the season could be turning around.

Throughout the game Hornet head coach Michael Linenberger and assistant Jason Gantt were yelling at their players to play with more intensity and passion.

“Some guys weren’t trying hard,” said Linenberger, “you don’t win at this level jogging up and down the field the whole game.”

The Hornets can’t afford to be jogging on Sunday when the Capa de Causeway tournament winning UC Davis Aggies pay a visit to Hornet Field.

The Aggies have a 4-1-1 record and the fourth-highest scoring offense in the nation. The Hornets will be seeking revenge after losing 1-0 to the Aggies last year.

Don’t forget to wear green clothing when you come on Sunday, those that do will get free admission.

Lamont Weaver can be reached at [email protected]