Sanchez’ strike lifts Keelhaulers to victory in Cal Pac opener

VALLEJO, Calif. – If Saturday afternoon offered a glimpse of how Cal Maritime's conference slate will unfold, Keelhauler soccer fans have every reason to feel excited following a 2-1 win over Simpson, the first in men's soccer's recorded history, dating back to the 2015 season.

Until Saturday's result, Simpson won the previous 11 head-to-head games.

The Red Hawks struck early 15 minutes into the game, but Jose Diaz' header off a free kick, taken by Billy Plampin a few yards outside the box, drew the Keelhaulers even heading into halftime. 

Diaz' goal energized the entire team for the rest of the afternoon: Eight of its 13 shots and took place after halftime, goalkeeper Fabian Garcia recorded six of his nine saves throughout the second half and the entire game swung towards Cal Maritime's favor in the 47th minute. 

Off another free kick, Diaz' initial attempt was thwarted by Simpson netminder Jacopo Triolese, but a heads-up play from Mateo Sanchez, who attacked the net and jumped all over the Diaz' blocked shot, flew inside the near post and broke the 1-1 tie for good.

Three of Sanchez' four shots were on goal, both totals were game-high figures. 

Men's soccer's homestand will continue Friday evening against Westcliff, kickoff at Bodnar Field is set for 7 p.m.