SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA - Angel Iniguez needed just 117 seconds to write the story of a wild encounter, slotting home a precise through ball from Carlos Gonzalez before a crowd of 1,872 at Spartan Soccer Complex. The early goal propelled San Diego St. to an early advantage, but San Jose St. fought back to level the score twice, ultimately playing to a 2-2 draw that extends their current unbeaten streak to three matches.
The early breakthrough set the tone for what became an end-to-end thriller, with both teams creating half-chances throughout the first half. San Jose St.'s goalkeeper, Janis Militaris, was tested just once before the 12th minute, but Iniguez's quick strike forced him into a sprawling save on the follow-up attempt by Christian Engmann. As the half wore on, San Jose St. began to establish their rhythm, with midfielder Ethan Contreras orchestrating several promising attacks. Despite their efforts, they couldn't produce a clear-cut chance until the 40th minute when a weighted pass from Contreras found striker Eduardo Lopez, who rifled a shot just wide of the post.
The second half saw San Diego St. double their lead through Christian Engmann's well-taken finish in the 74th minute, assisted by Carson Ballagh's incisive cross. However, San Jose St. refused to back down, and their persistence was rewarded when Angel Iniguez inadvertently turned a San Jose St. cross into his own net in the 82nd minute. The hosts pushed for a winner, and their efforts were finally rewarded when Terence Okoeguale dispatched a rebound in the 89th minute.
The statistical ledger reveals a tale of two teams with contrasting styles. San Jose St. dominated possession and shot attempts, outshooting San Diego St. 16-4 and earning an equal number of corner kicks (3-3). However, San Diego St.'s clinical finishing proved decisive, with their two goals coming from just four shot attempts. San Jose St.'s five shots on target were unable to produce more than two goals, highlighting their wasteful finishing. The visitors' goalkeeper made three crucial saves, while San Jose St.'s Militaris was called upon just three times.
The draw maintains San Jose St.'s unbeaten streak at three matches, improving their overall record to 8-3-4. For San Diego St., the result extends their unbeaten run to two matches, with their record now standing at 6-7-2. San Jose St. will look to build on their momentum when they host UNLV next, while San Diego St. will travel to Utah Valley, seeking to continue their recent form.
As the teams parted ways, the sense was that both had given their all in a thrilling encounter. The afternoon belonged to the players who seized the moment – Iniguez with his early strike, Engmann with his clinical finish, and Okoeguale with the late equalizer. With both teams showing glimpses of quality, their next matches will be eagerly anticipated.
The victory (or rather, the draw) represents more than just a point for both teams. For San Jose St., it was a testament to their resilience and determination. For San Diego St., it was a sign that their attacking flair can yield results even on the road. As both teams look to their next opponents, they will be buoyed by their performances and will look to build on the momentum they've established.
Key Players:
Angel Iniguez (San Diego St.) – Scored the opening goal before inadvertently turning a cross into his own net, epitomizing the chaotic nature of the match.
Christian Engmann (San Diego St.) – Doubled San Diego St.'s lead with a well-taken finish, showcasing his clinical ability in front of goal.
Terence Okoeguale (San Jose St.) – Scored the late equalizer, dispatching a rebound with composure to salvage a point for the hosts.
Ethan Contreras (San Jose St.) – Orchestrated several promising attacks with his intelligent distribution, keeping San Jose St.'s hopes alive throughout the match.