The BYU men's soccer team traveled roughly 1,500 miles in a frantic four-day road trip to California. The squad earned more than just peanuts and pretzels for their travels, notching a split of two very important games. The team avenged a 2-1 loss at the hands of the Fresno Fuego with a 2-1 victory over L.A. Misioneros FC.
On Thursday, the Cougars lost to the Fresno Fuego in an intense match that wasn't decided until the final minutes. Both teams were held scoreless until the Fuego netted a goal in the 71st minute. With the match in jeopardy, BYU head coach Chris Watkins substituted fresh players into the game to give the team an offensive boost. The move payed dividends and junior forward Garrett Losee scored with two minutes remaining in regulation. The team's celebration didn't last long, however, as an official's ruling allowed the Fuego to score the game's final goal in the 89th minute.
'We obviously thought it was a major foul, but the referee didn't call it,' Watkins said. 'The game was over.'
After the bitter loss, the team made the trip to Los Angeles to face L.A. Misioneros FC on Saturday. The Cougars were able to rebound from Thursday's disappointing defeat with a 2-1 victory. Sophomore midfielder Colby Bauer was assisted by Losee on the game's first goal. In the second half, a shot by freshman Dallin Cutler was saved, but midfielder Mike Moreno was able to put the game away with a goal off the rebound. The Cougars avenged a scoreless tie on May 24, and earned three valuable points in the Southwest Division standings.
The Cougars next and final home game will be on July 4 against the Ogden Outlaws at 8:00 PM. Fans are encouraged to enjoy both the game and a great view of the Stadium of Fire fireworks from South Field.