PLEASANTON, Calif. — Jessup snapped a winless streak with a 1-0 victory over UC Santa Cruz on Wednesday, securing the program's first win in four matches. Aidan Vangelatos scored the decisive goal in the 62nd minute, assisted by Justin Parrish, lifting the hosts past the visiting Banana Slugs in a defensive struggle.
The match remained scoreless through 45 minutes despite UC Santa Cruz controlling possession and creating early opportunities. Kotetsu Horike tested Jessup's defense with a shot in the 2nd minute, while Jackson Chandler and Zander Crawford each had attempts blocked in the opening half. Jessup responded with limited offensive chances, with Shea Gomberg's effort sailing out of frame in the 42nd minute.
Vangelatos broke through in the second half when he connected on a low center shot at 62:35, capitalizing on Jessup's improved attacking approach after halftime. The goal proved sufficient on a night when both teams struggled to generate consistent scoring chances. UC Santa Cruz mounted late pressure, with Chad Lyon and Roman Avagimov creating opportunities, but Jessup's defense held firm.
UC Santa Cruz dominated the territorial battle, earning six corner kicks compared to Jessup's two. The Banana Slugs also attempted eight shots to Jessup's six, though both teams managed only three shots on goal apiece. Jessup's goalkeeper made three saves to preserve the shutout, while UC Santa Cruz's keeper recorded one save.
Jose Perez received a yellow card for unsporting conduct in the 82nd minute as