By Hector Roldan (@HectorRSJSU) – Spear Reporter
Photo by Christian Vieyra | The Spear
SJSU men’s soccer (4-3-3, 1-0-0 WAC) won its conference opener at home over Air Force (0-9-1, 0-1-0 WAC).
SJSU started off fast in the first half as it was able to capitalize on a header from inside the box by sophomore Josh Lucas after scoring the lone goal in the match in the 27th minute, which was assisted by senior Joel Garcia Jr.
Air Force wasn’t able to pressure the SJSU much as it was held to nine shots in the match and only one was on goal.
The Spartans were able to beat the Falcons at home again as the Air Force hasn’t been able to beat SJSU at home since 2017. The Falcons haven’t beaten the Spartans in a match since 2021.
Although the score was clean tonight for the Spartans the match was chippy from start to finish. There were a total of eight yellow cards handed out in the match. Six Spartans received a yellow card including the only goalscorer in the match Lucas.
Fifth-year senior goalkeeper David Sweeney recorded his first shutout of the season and tied the SJSU record with his 18th career shutout. Sweeney needs one more shutout to stand alone in the Spartan record books.
“You put your finger on it and when you being WAC conference play the first game at home the result is the most important thing,” said coach Simon Tobin.
SJSU looks to keep momentum on its side as it takes on Utah Valley at home on Sunday, Oct. 1 at 1 p.m