Following a hard-fought 1-0 home lost to Sonoma State on September 9, the Pioneer men's soccer team will play road CCAA matches against Cal State Stanislaus on September 14 at 7:00 p.m. and Chico State on September 16 at 2:00 p.m. The Pioneers were defeated by the Warriors twice during the 2011 campaign. Cal State East Bay lost twice to Chico State last season, including a 1-0 decision on September 25.

"Both places are tough to play," Pioneer coach Andy Cumbo said. "Our focus will be to get results and pick up points and prevent Stanislaus and Chico from gaining ground in the North Division." We have players on the verge of breaking through for us. Now is the time for those players to step up."

After three matches, the Pioneers have outshot their opponents by a 35-34 margin. Florian Reppin is the Pioneers' top scorer with two goals and one assist. Chris Lara has scored a goal and an assist in three matches. The Pioneers have been solid on defense this season, led by Paul Dewhurst, Salvador Mendoza and Kellen Crow. Pioneer goalkeepers Bryce Bookhamer and Rene Martinez have allowed five goals on the year.

"Florian is doing a great job holding the ball, while Kellen has been a consistent player on defense," Cumbo said. "Both Bryce and Rene have both done well in the net. They have been supported of each other."

Cal State Stanislaus stands at 3-1 overall and 1-1 in the CCAA. The Warriors had a three-game winning streak snapped by Cal State Los Angeles on September 9. Daniel Kuczynski and Nolan Holdridge lead the Warriors in scoring with five points each. Goalkeeper Clint Long has allowed 1.50 goals per match with 20 saves.

Chico State is 2-2 for the season and 1-1 in CCAA play. The Wildcats entered the season as the CCAA Coaches' pick to win the North Division for the third straight year. Akwafei Ajeakwa, with two goals, is the Wildcats' top scorer. Keeper Sam Evans has recorded one shutout while allowing 1.75 goals per match.

Coach Cumbo feels his team is coming around after three matches. "The players feel much better following the impressive performance against Sonoma State," Cumbo said. "We're getting closer as a unit and ready to make an impact in the CCAA."

Follow the matches live at Cal State East Bay Men's Soccer Live Stats.