Cincinnati, Ohio - In a highly physical game, the Pacific men's soccer team (1-3-1) and Xavier (4-0-1) only combined for four shots on goal as the Musketeers won 1-0.
Ryan Her had two shots, and Samuel Saiz Herraiz and Cory Johnson both had one shot for the Tigers. Johnson had the only shot on goal for the Tigers. Eric Cotton had two saves in goal.
Emory Rapaport made his first appearance since the season opener, starting in the back line for the Tiger's defense.
"The return of Emory helped us," said Head Coach Adam Reeves. "I thought Ryan Her did a great job along with Avery and Samuel. We will recover and get ready for a big challenge on Sunday with Marshall."
The Tigers were on the attack early, firing two shots in the first ten minutes of the match as they looked to throw the first punch against the ranked opponent. During the first 30 minutes, the two teams could not find a goal. Xavier found the net in the 39th minute from 35 yards out to take the lead.
The Tigers had opportunities in the second half, including a shot from Her and two straight corner kicks in the 75th minute but could not break the Xavier defense. Xavier held the ball for the remaining time to secure the 1-0 win.
"I am really proud of the way we played tonight," said Reeves. "I don't think we did much wrong. Unfortunately, the difference in the game was a wonder goal from 35 yards. We created a good number of opportunities. Right now, it is just not falling our way, and we need to correct it. We need to do better in the crucial moments of the match.
The Tigers are back in action on Sunday as they take on #8 Marshall. Kick-off is at 10 a.m.