# Spartans Rally from Behind to Top Aggies 2-1 in Davis
DAVIS, CA – San Jose State pulled off a dramatic second-half comeback, scoring twice to defeat UC Davis 2-1 on Tuesday night at Aggie Soccer Field. Arnold Matshazi netted the game-winner in the 43rd minute of the second half as the Spartans improved to 6-1-2 while a crowd of 725 witnessed UC Davis fall to 0-5-3.
The Aggies struck first late in the opening period when they took advantage of a San Jose State foul in the 17th minute. UC Davis capitalized on the opportunity to grab a 1-0 advantage heading into halftime, showcasing their defensive organization against the visiting Spartans.
San Jose State came out with renewed purpose after the break. The equalizer arrived when the Spartans drew level, erasing UC Davis's lead and shifting the momentum decisively. The visitors continued to press forward, creating several dangerous opportunities through Gilberto Rivera and Angel Iniguez.
The first 45 minutes saw UC Davis defend deep while looking to counterattack. San Jose State dominated possession and created multiple chances, with Gilberto Rivera testing the UC Davis goalkeeper in the 41st minute and Ruben Flores-Thomas forcing another save just a minute later. Despite the pressure, the Aggies held firm to protect their slim advantage at the break.
The second half belonged entirely to San Jose State. The Spartans poured forward in search of an equalizer and eventually found their breakthrough. Arnold Matshazi proved to be the hero, finishing clinically in the 43rd minute to complete the comeback. UC Davis tried to respond but couldn't find a way past the organized Spartan defense.
The statistical battle reflected San Jose State's dominance in the second period. The Spartans registered numerous shots on goal throughout the match, with Gilberto Rivera particularly active (shots in the 1st, 44th, 59th minutes). UC Davis managed efforts from Cason Goodman and Zack Lillington but struggled to create clear-cut chances after halftime.
Individual performances highlighted the contrast between the two sides. For San Jose State, Gilberto Rivera was a constant threat down the wing, while Angel Iniguez and Dane Pendleton combined effectively in the attacking third. UC Davis relied on the defensive work of Zachary Neuls and Zack Lillington, though both picked up yellow cards (Ensio Sardans 2' and Zack Lillington 19' in first half). Daniel Fregoso Bautista also saw yellow in the 51st minute for the visitors.
The victory keeps San Jose State's strong start to the season rolling with an impressive 6-1-2 record through nine matches. The Spartans have now won two straight and remain unbeaten in their last five outings. Meanwhile, UC Davis continues searching for their first win of the campaign at 0-5-3, extending their winless streak to eight matches to open the year.
San Jose State's second-half adjustments proved the difference as they dominated the final 45 minutes to secure all three points on the road. The Spartans showed resilience and quality to overcome an early deficit, while UC Davis will rue their inability to protect their halftime lead and find attacking solutions against a determined opponent.