The ninth-ranked UCSB men’s soccer team put together a solid 90-minute outing and recorded its first shutout of the season, blanking host Gonzaga 3-0 on the final day of the Gonzaga Nike Classic in Spokane on Sunday.
Nic Ryan and Achille Campion each scored their second goals of the season and Goffin Boyoko tallied his first goal as a Gaucho. Goalkeeper Austin Mansker made two saves in notching his first collegiate shutout.
The Gauchos (2-0-1) had given up late goals in their first two matches of the season (last week?s win at Loyola Marymount and Friday?s 2-2 tie against Oregon State in the Nike Classic). But that would not be the case against the Bulldogs. They dominated play from the start, allowing only two shots on goal.
Ryan recorded his second game-winning goal of the young season in the 31st minute, finishing a cross from Dion Acoff. Ryan hit his shot into the upper V.
The score remained 1-0 until the 80th minute when Champion was fouled in the penalty area. The Frenchman stepped up and converted.
Boyoko scored the third goal off a free kick from Ema Boateng.
Gaucho Daniel Welsh was named the tournament’s Defensive MVP.
UCSB plays its first home match on Friday against Valparaiso at 7:30 p.m.
