Box Score SEATTLE, Wash. – Cal State East Bay men's soccer will return to Hayward following the end of its Washington road trip on Monday night. The Pioneers suffered a 1-0 loss to Seattle Pacific at Interbay Stadium after SPU's Matt Merchant scored in the 15th minute.

Merchant scored his first goal of the season at the 14:28 mark, assisted by Sean Russell. It was one of seven shots on goal for the Falcons in the contest.

"Unfortunately we gave up a goal that shouldn't happen. Two of our defenders collided trying to clear the ball," said East Bay Head Coach Andy Cumbo. "SPU is a very good team on both sides of the ball. We had a slow start to the game, but eventually got settled and had some really good moments."

Out of halftime Cal State East Bay fired off three shots over the first three minutes with attempts from Chris Lara, Michael Tieku, and Javier Martin. Martin led all players with five shots taken in the match.

Teammate Conley Perry put one on target in the 64th minute to force the lone save from opposing goalkeeper Cody Lang. The SPU netminder has needed to make only one save in each of the team's three wins this year.

East Bay goalkeeper Adrian Topete made a season-high six saves in the loss. He has allowed only two goals, including one penalty kick, over the past three matches (318 minutes).

Senior transfer Steven Henry earned a spot in the starting 11 in his first appearance with the team. Freshman Michael Paiva made his collegiate debut as a late substitute.

Seattle Pacific went unbeaten (2-0-1) against California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) teams as it heads into its own league schedule later this week. The Falcons earned wins over Humboldt State and East Bay, and finished in a 1-1 tie with nationally ranked No. 16 Chico State. The score by the Wildcats is the only goal SPU has allowed in four matches this season.

"We put together a good effort but it wasn't good enough to win tonight. There's a reason why Seattle Pacific is undefeated and have only conceded one goal in four games," said Cumbo of Monday's opponent. "This has been a positive trip and we're more prepared for league (play)."

Cal State East Bay (1-2-1) will travel to Cal Maritime Academy (0-0-0) on Thursday, Sept. 18.

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