HONOLULU – Saturday was about being opportunistic. For Chaminade University, it was those missed. For Point Loma, it was about making the most of theirs.
The Sea Lions attempted only two shots on goal in the game, but capitalized on both in their 2-0 win over the Silverswords at Saint Louis Field, despite Chaminade (3-8 overall, 2-5 Pacific West Conference) out-shooting Point Loma, 25-9.
The Silverswords had a golden opportunity to open the scoring just 2 minutes in when a PLNU foul in the box resulted in a penalty kick.
Lukas Pousset's attempt was saved by keeper Avrin Yakou, keeping the 'Swords off the scoreboard.
Just eight minutes later, Point Loma (2-7-2, 2-3-1) struck as a cross pass from the left sideline by Steven Velazquez found Tyler Allen, who in turn made a touch pass to Nico Tagaloa, who one-timed the ball into the net. It would be the only shot the Sea Lions attempted in the half.
Meanwhile, the Silverswords attempted 18 first-half shots, six on goal with Pousset,
Colton Gallt,
Dayton Sato and
Austin Bush each getting looks.
In the second half, PLNU added an insurance goal in the 60
th minute when Matt Rose launched an arcing shot from 35 yards out and just snuck under the crossbar for a 2-0 Sea Lions lead. Point Loma then hung on and survived several shot attempts in down the stretch.
It was the first time since their season opener on Aug. 30 – a span of nine games – that the 'Swords were shutout.
Bernd Buescherhoff took the loss while Yakou got the win.
The Silverswords, who completed a four-game home stand in a span of eight days, will face the University of Hawai'i-Hilo next Saturday on the Big Island.
