By Ethan Ndachi (@EthanNdachi) – Content editor | Sophomore Arnold Matshazi celebrates goal vs Stanford (Photo by Niles Hall – Content Editor)
San Jose State (4-1-2) took No. 3-ranked Stanford (6-1-1) to the limit at the Spartan Soccer Complex Wednesday night in a 2-2 draw that left the Spartan spectators gutted at the final whistle.
This result is unfortunate to get added to the list of draws in the history books, since the Spartans last victory in 2006, making the record 0-9-4.
It was a story of set-piece success for Stanford, as they were able to capitalize on multiple opportunities, including an 89th-minute equalizer by redshirt junior Alfonso Tenconi-Gradillas to disappoint head coach Simon Tobin.
“I thought the No. 3 team in the country were very happy they came here with the tie.” Tobin said. “It leaves a foul taste in your mouth, but overall you’re looking at the game, I’m very happy with them [SJSU].”
SJSU was very confident heading into the matchup, and they backed up their talk, looking like the better side for the majority of the game, making Stanford chase in the last 40 minutes of the match.
“I think it’s a little heartbreaking,” Senior Angel Iniguez said. “We outplayed them for most of the match and I’m super proud of the whole team.”
Sophomore striker Arnold Matshazi certainly enjoyed his debut against Stanford, first equalizing for SJSU after a brilliant ball from junior defender Ruben Flores-Thomas. Before doubling up after a thunderous pass into the box from compatriot sophomore Cameron Cook, erupting the Spartan Soccer Complex.
“The boys put in such a great shift, for both of my goals it was the work of the team, I was just there, right place right time.” Matshazi said.
The man from Milton Keynes now improves his return to five goals in seven games for the Spartans, who have their eyes on the WAC championship with the season all still to play for.
“He makes a big difference for us,” Tobin said. “Most successful teams have had someone that can put the ball in the net, and Arnold does that.”
On the opposite side of the field, SJSU’s defense was superb, barring the set-piece conundrum. Redshirt junior Dane Pendleton and senior Javier Lopez in particular, were stellar at the back. Pendleton was electric going both ways on the left-hand side, whereas Lopez put his body on the line to shut down Stanford in open play.
“For Javi especially, probably the best I’ve seen him play,” Tobin said. “He’s just matured into a really good defender, I’m proud of him.”
Lopez’s tackles and clearances gained him cheers from the Complex tonight, and he was one of the reasons the Spartans were able to hold onto their lead for so long.
The game attendance of 2,489 smashed the previous record of 1,559 at the Spartan Soccer Complex, which was against Stanford on Sept.1st, 2023.
“Just the roar from the crowd just fills you with chills, things you dream of.” Matshazi said.
SJSU will travel away from home this weekend to take on Pacific, who are 1-5 so far this season, to hopefully build on this result.
“Going to their place, that’d be a tough game,” Tobin said. “That really becomes a more important game than this one.”
The Spartans will battle the Tigers Sunday at 6 p.m. in Stockton.
