NEWBERG, Ore. -- The George Fox men's soccer team started off hot with an early goal, before ultimately tying with the Oregon Tech Owls, 1-1, in their season opener.

How It Happened
The Bruin attack struck quickly, scoring just four minutes into the game. Alec Bongervino found Wilson Fresh cutting down the sideline, giving the ball to a wide-open Fresh. The junior, who had scored twice in exhibition play for the Bruins, blasted a ball into the top left of the goal to give Fox an early 1-0 lead.

Though the Owls had a few other chances in the opening moments, it was Kellin Aguiar who had the closest opportunity next. After Fresh's shot was blocked, Aguiar put up a ball from the 18-yard box that was narrowly saved by OIT's Harvey Bolland. After one half, the Bruins lead, 1-0.

An unfortunate bounce led to the demise of the Fox lead, however, with the Owls scoring early in the second half. An inadvertent handball in the penalty box on a shot attempt meant a penalty for OIT; Merrick Tambio converted on the attempt, putting a ball into the top right of the goal to knot the game up, 1-1.

Possession in the second half was mostly dominated by the Owls, with OIT outshooting GFU, 11-3. Chase Nelson had several standout saves, including a key one in the 69th minute in a one-on-one situation. Despite the majority of the half being on the Bruins' side of the field, the Fox defense held. Eugene Peltier had two solid looks at a shot, with Carson Tapia getting a final shot on goal off in the final seconds. Tapia's shot was saved, with the Bruins and Owls tying, 1-1.

Top Performers
Wilson Fresh scored one goal for the Bruins, with Alec Buongervino recording an assist. Kellin Aguiar and Carson Tapia had the other shots on goal, while Chase Nelson totaled four saves and stopped numerous cross attempts. 

Coach's Thoughts
"Tonight presented a very real challenge and contrast in styles," Bruin head coach Paul Karver said, "OIT did a fantastic job of putting pressure on us as the game went on and that made it difficult for us to keep control of it. In the end we need to be more mature in some moments to decide the outcome in a more positive way. Earning the draw showed real guts from our guys and these learning opportunities will only make us better as we prepare for conference."

What It Means
The Bruins start their season with a tie, their record being 0-0-1. The Owls' record moves to 1-0-2.

What Comes Next
Fox will welcome another NAIA squad to Austin Sports Complex as Bushnell comes to Newberg on Tuesday, September 2, at 7:00 pm.