Denver men’s soccer dropped a 2-1 decision to the  #19 University of San Diego Toreros today in a West Coast Conference Semifinal match in Portland, Oregon. DU  was seeded #3 and San Diego #2. The game was  held at the University of Portland’s Merlo Field and game was broadcast on ESPN+. San Diego  will now play the winner of the Portland/San Francisco match in the final.

The Toreros started the game very strong and scored a high left goal before the 3 minute mark.  San Diego dominated possession, especially in the first 10- 12 minutes and  the Pios did not have a shot until the 29′. DU started creating opportunities in the last 10-15 minutes of the half though and held the Toreros to the one goal.   Freshman Goalkeeper Alex Hohl made several quality saves.

5th year Forward Bryce Willoughby started the second half with a breakaway goal at 52′ to tie the game 1-1. After a missed play by DU, San Diego came right back to take the lead once again at 53′.  DU was in the attack mode for the first 15 minutes of the second half with Willoughby having another shot at 62′. The game went back & forth until Freshman Forward Chase Stewart attempted a final shot with a header at the 86′ mark. Denver had seven shots to San Diego’s 15 to end the game.

The Pioneers end the season with a 5-8-4 record.   The team overcame many injuries to  have a positive first  season in the WCC (4-1-3). Junior Defender Will King and Senior Midfielder Luke Schultz were both named to All-WCC First Team and Sophomore Midfielder Erik Collins was named to the All-WCC Second Team.