Aug. 29, 2010

DAVIS, Calif. - The UC Davis men's soccer team took a 1-0 win over visiting Chico State in an exhibition game Sunday at Aggie Soccer Field.

In the 47th minute, Lance Patterson dribbled through several Chico State defenders, then sent a cross into the middle of the penalty area which found freshman Nick Grigoriev. Grigoriev sent a powerful header into the back of the net to give UC Davis the 1-0 win.

UC Davis had several other chances to score as the team posted 10 shots in each half.

Grigoriev nearly had his second goal of the game as he connected on a corner kick from Alex Henry in the 56th minute, but sent the header wide.

As play continued in the second half, Dan Reese's attempt in the 76th minute sailed over the crossbar, then his shot at the 83:13 mark was blocked by the Chico State defense.

With less than four minutes remaining, Rene Cuellar began a solo attack from midfield that resulted in a strong shot on Chico State goalkeeper Sam Evans. Cuellar moved around several Wildcat defenders before striking a shot from 10 yards out. Evans, however, put his body in front of the ball and deflected the attempt.

Evans finished the game with two saves, while Mike Beigarten, who started the game in goal for Chico State, recorded three saves.

UC Davis allowed only three shots and gave up four corner kicks to the Wildcats.

The Aggies return to action Sept. 3 at 7 p.m. as they travel to Cal State Bakersfield for their season opener.

The team then hosts its first home game of the season Sept. 5 against San Jose State at 5 p.m at Aggie Soccer Field.