SALEM, Ore. – The Corban University men's soccer team (5-4-2, 2-4-2) delivered a statement victory Friday night, defeating Bushnell University (9-1-4, 5-1-2) in 2-0 shutout fashion to hand the Beacons their first loss of the season. The Warriors struck twice in the first half thanks to freshman forward Antonio Virrueta and graduate defender Landon Moore before sophomore goalkeeper Rylan Davidson came up with a crucial penalty kick save after halftime to preserve the shutout and a crucial three points in the Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) standings.
"Extremely proud of the guys tonight! Giving Bushnell their first loss and playing as well as we did was such a great feeling for the group. It was a complete performance from Rylan all the way to the attackers and showed how dangerous we can be! We're excited to have the weekend to recoup and go again versus some good teams next week," head coach Jordan Keegan said.
Corban came out ready to attack, creating opportunities in the first half and gradually building pressure on the Bushnell defense. The Warriors broke through in the 22nd minute when Virrueta scored his second goal of the season off an assist from junior forward Jesus Mendoza. Corban continued to press forward following the opening goal, earning three consecutive corner kicks and keeping the Beacons under pressure. The consistent persistence paid off again in the 26th minute when Moore found the back of the net for his second goal of the season, doubling Corban's lead to 2-0. The Warriors continued to generate chances, including a shot from Mendoza that was saved by Bushnell goalkeeper Aaron Lowry in the 36th minute. Corban limited the Beacons to just one shot in the opening half and carried its two-goal advantage into the break.
Bushnell came out with greater urgency in the second half, looking to get back into the match and protect its unbeaten record. The Beacons earned a penalty kick in the 54th minute, creating a pivotal moment in the match. Davidson rose to the occasion by saving Sammy Bayer's attempt to maintain their two-goal lead. Just two minutes later, Davidson denied another shot from Bayer, continuing to frustrate the Bushnell attack. The Beacons increased their offensive pressure and recorded seven shots in the second half, but Corban's defense remained organized and limited their clear opportunities. The Warriors also looked for a third goal with a shot from junior midfielder Christ Ramirez sailing high in the 65th minute. Even with Bushnell's late push, Corban held firm through the final whistle, completing the 2-0 shutout and handing the Beacons their first defeat of the season.
Virrueta and Moore led Corban offensively with one goal apiece, while Mendoza recorded an assist on the opening goal. The Warriors finished with seven shots, including three on goal, and earned three corner kicks. Davidson played all 90 minutes in goal, recording two saves, which included the pivotal second half penalty kick stop to earn the shutout.
Bushnell finished with eight shots, including two on goal, and earned four corner kicks. Bayer recorded both shots on target for the Beacons but was unable to convert. Lowry recorded one save for the Beacons as well.
The Warriors will look to carry the momentum from their statement victory into their next match when face Oregon Tech on October 23rd at 7pm at the Outdoor Athletic Complex.
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