SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – Whitworth University could not overcome a two-goal deficit on Sunday, falling 2-1 at UC Santa Cruz in a men's soccer non-conference contest.
The Pirates (2-2) lost both games in California over the weekend and will now turn their attention to Northwest Conference action next weekend at Pacific Lutheran and Puget Sound.
The Banana Slugs scored twice in the opening half. Caleb Lee finished a cross from Luca Bravo, which was pushed on by Derek Uemura in the 26th minute. Torin Volkamer made it 2-0 in the 33rd minute from an assist by Owen Deming.
Whitworth cut the lead in half in the 67th minute when Cole Friesen converted a penalty kick for his fifth goal of the season.
UCSC held a 20-8 advantage in total shots, including a 7-2 edge in shots on goal.
Andrew Wolotira played the first 45 minutes for the Pirates and allowed two goals and made one save. Aiden Chase was in goal for the second 45 minutes and made two stops.
Kian Van Der Meer made one save and allowed one goal for the Banana Slugs.
