SPOKANE, Wash. — The Gonzaga University Bulldogs (3-4-2, 0-1-1) and Santa Clara University (3-2-6, 0-0-2) played to a scoreless draw on Saturday night at Luger Field.
Both teams recorded a shutout, with the Bulldogs' goalkeeper making one save and Santa Clara's saving four.
The match between the Bulldogs and Santa Clara began with both teams showcasing solid defensive strategies.
Ian Silva was active offensively, recording two shots, with his second effort being saved by Santa Clara's Jackson Ozburn. Gonzaga's defense, led by goalkeeper
Chema Preciado, successfully countered Santa Clara's attacks, including a notable save against Simon Diagana's shot.
Despite multiple corner kick opportunities for both teams, neither could capitalize, keeping the score level throughout the first half. The half concluded with the score tied at 0-0, setting the stage for a competitive second half.
The second half began with the Bulldogs exerting pressure early, as Silva and
Geremi Onentia each attempted shots shortly after the restart.
Michael Luande forced Santa Clara's goalkeeper, Ozburn, to make two critical saves within five minutes, maintaining the pressure on the visitors.
GU continued to press with several corners and shots, including attempts from
Ethan Doud and
Alex Bazia, but could not find the back of the net. Santa Clara faced discipline issues, receiving multiple cards, including a red card for Alejandro Arenas in the 85th minute, but the Zags could not capitalize on the man advantage. The half concluded with the score locked at 0-0.
Chema Preciado recorded a shutout with one save over 90 minutes for Gonzaga. Silva led the team with four shots, one of which was on goal. Luande contributed with two shots, both on target. Doud managed to have one shot on goal during the match.
The Zags hold a record of 3-4-2 overall and 0-1-1 in conference play. Santa Clara stands at 3-2-6 overall with a 0-0-2 record in conference matchups.
In their next game, Gonzaga travels to San Francisco, CA, to take on San Francisco on October 10. The match is set for 7 p.m. as the Bulldogs look to secure a road victory.