via Oregon Tech Athletic Communications
REDDING, Calif. – A pair of unlucky first half goals helped Simpson University claim a 2-0 victory over Oregon Tech in the second-leg of the Sky Cup Series at the California Soccer Park.
Jesus Rodriguez, who did not play in the first meeting between the teams in Klamath Falls, scored both goals for the Redhawks (1-2) – who evened the aggregate score at 4-4, claiming the traveling trophy via most road goals scored (2-0).
A new artificial surface at the venue wrecked havoc on the Owls (3-2) in the opening 25 minutes – as an OIT defender slipped in the first minute of play, allowing Bryan Ortiz to make a long run down the right side, slotting a pass to the charging Rodriguez – who drove home a 25-yard strike.
In the 16th minute, the duo struck again, as another Tech defender slipped while marking Ortiz – allowing a cross to the top of the 18, where Rodriguez hit a soft left-footed shot into the net.
SU keeper Eric Canela made five saves in the win for the Redhawks – with Tech having their best opportunity in the 77th minute, as Manny Garcia slipped behind the defense, but his 20-yard 1-on-1 attempt went over the cross bar.
Both teams took eight shot attempts, with OIT failing to convert five corner kick chances.
The Owls return home next weekend, opening Cascade Conference play on Friday at 2:30 p.m. against Warner Pacific.