The Hornets have allowed only three goals in 7 matches and have scored in every match with 10 goals total.

“It’s great,” head coach Michael Linenberger said. “I am very pleased with the performance of the team and the results.”

The Sac State men’s soccer program is also being recognized for its success nationally. For the third-straight week, Sac State is ranked No. 7 in the NSCAA/Adidas Far-West Region.

“It’s nice to be recognized,” Linenberger said. “It really helps the program and builds confidence.”

Linenberger believes that when the team succeeds first, players can be recognized individually as well. Freshman goalkeeper Bryan Oliver has been a pleasant surprise for the coaching staff.

“At first, we thought Bryan would redshirt for the first season,” Linenberger said. “But we kept him due to another goal keeper injury.”

Oliver is ranked No. 12 in the nation in save percentage (0.912), 19th in goals against average (0.482) and 26th in saves (5.17 per match). Oliver also has four shutouts this season.

“Oliver gives us a lot of depth at the goalkeeper position,” Linenberger said. “All our keepers are healthy now, but we have stayed with Oliver.”

The Hornets have become a strong defensive team, having earned 5 shutouts in only 7 games, and are anchored by an experienced backline.

“I think this is the best we have ever done defensively as a team,” Linenberger said. “We are playing well as a unit and we have a great team mentality.”

Coach Linenberger set a team goal of holding opponents to only zero or one goal per game. So far, the Hornets have exceeded that. The team’s defense has led to a strong and consistent attack, with senior forward Blake Nunes leading the way.

Blake Nunes ranks 55th in the NCAA in goals per game (0.57) and has scored 4 goals in 7 games and 5 goals total counting an exhibition victory over Stanford.

“Blake is scoring very consistently,” Linenberger said. “His hard work over the summer is really paying off dividends.”

Senior defender Omar Martinez has also become an offensive force from the backline by being a threat on set pieces with three assists. Martinez is ranked 79th in the NCAA in assists per game (0.912).

“Omar really took training to a whole other level during the spring,” Linenberger said. “He got fit, became a great professional, and now it’s paying off for him.”

There has been a theme, and a major reason, for the team’s success so far according to Linenberger. That theme is preparation.

“The boys have come into the season prepared,” assistant coach Matt McDougal said. “Like coach Mike has said, this is the most fit and prepared team we have had. The success is a direct result of the hard work the team has put in and the guys are happy.”

Ronnie Nurss can be reached at [email protected].