SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — Gonzaga University (3-5-2, 0-2-1) fell to the University of San Francisco (6-3-1, 1-2-0) in a tightly contested 1-0 match on Friday night at Negoesco Stadium, despite a standout performance by the Gonzaga goalkeeper with seven saves.
The first half began with Gonzaga facing early pressure from San Francisco, as Brayden Beason scored in the sixth minute to give the home team a 1-0 lead. The Zags had opportunities to respond, including a shot by Farhan Moustafa and consecutive corner kicks shortly after the 15th-minute mark. Robbie Mora tested the San Francisco goalkeeper with a shot in the 22nd minute, but his effort was saved.
Chema Preciado kept GU in the match with crucial saves, denying multiple attempts from San Francisco, including a notable stop against Oscar Harris in the 32nd minute. Despite these defensive efforts, the Bulldogs entered the break trailing 1-0, setting up a challenging second half.
The second half began with the Zags looking to shift the game's momentum. Michael Luande attempted an early shot at the 45:29 mark, which went wide, setting the tone for GU's offensive push. Preciado remained a key figure defensively, making critical saves against San Francisco's attempts, including efforts by Ben Norris and Jaggar Judkins.
As the half progressed, GU continued to press forward. Geremi Onentia and Nicholas Bianchi both tested the San Francisco goalkeeper, Lucas Jones, with shots on target, but Jones was able to deny each attempt. The Zags' defensive unit, anchored by Preciado's saves, kept San Francisco from extending their lead. The half concluded with the score unchanged at 1-0 in favor of San Francisco.
Preciado made seven saves in a complete match performance, facing 16 shots and allowing just one goal. Mora contributed offensively with three shots, including one on target. Onentia delivered one shot on goal in the midfield, while Bianchi also recorded a shot on target, contributing to the team's attacking efforts.
GU dropped to 3-5-2 overall and 0-2-1 in conference play. San Francisco improved to 6-3-1 overall and 1-2-0 in conference play after the victory.
The next challenge for the Zags takes them on the road to Seattle, WA, where they will face Seattle on Oct. 15 in a 6 p.m. contest.
