SMU Soccer Loses In Portland

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PORTLAND, Ore. (SMU) – An own goal in the third minute proved to be the match winner for the Portland Pilots as they went on to defeat the SMU men’s soccer team, 3-0, at Merlo Field on Sunday. The loss dropped the Mustangs to 2-7 on the season, while the Pilots improved to 5-3.

The Mustangs found themselves down early after the Pilots served the ball back into the 18-yard box, following a corner kick, and it was deflected several times and eventually ended up in the Mustangs’ net.

Following the goal, the first half seemed to be in SMU’s favor, as they had a 9-3 advantage in shots and held the majority of possession.

The second frame, however, went to the Pilots as they scored twice in a minute’s worth of time off goals from Eddie Sanchez and Jaime Velasco in the 68th minute. UP also had the 10-6 edge in shots in a half in which the Mustangs were forced to play short-sided due to a red card.

Sophomore Eddie Puskarich led SMU with four shots on goal, while fellow sophomores Michael King and Leobardo Vazquez added one apiece.

Senior Jaime Ibarra finished with five saves.

SMU is back in action on Sunday when it hosts No. 18 Louisville in American Athletic Conference action. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CT. Live stats and video will be available via links on SMUMustangs.com.