MEN'S SOCCER LOSES LEAD LATE, PLAYS TO 1-1 DRAW AT SAINT MARY'S

9/16/2011

Eric Amato netted his second assist in as many games as the Hornets earned a 1-1 draw.

MORAGA, Calif. - Saint Mary's scored in the 89th minute to force overtime and the Sacramento State men's soccer team played the Gaels to a 1-1 draw on Friday afternoon at Saint Mary's Stadium.

The Hornets' record now sits at 3-2-1 after their first draw of the season while the Gaels' mark moves to 1-2-2.

Chris Bettencourt gave Sacramento State an early lead in the 27th minute with his third goal of the season. Bettencourt took a pass from Eric Amato on the left wing and took a close shot that found the back of the net. It was Amato's second straight game with an assist and third straight game with a point.

The Hornets maintained their lead until Saint Mary's scored with less than two minutes remaining in regulation.

After a shot was saved and rebounded back into the box, Saint Mary's Justin Grider collected the ball and scored to tie up the game at 1-1 with 81 seconds left to play.

Saint Mary's took three shots in the first overtime period as they put the pressure on but the Hornets rebounded with three shots of their own in the second extra period as the momentum switch their way. But neither team could break the tie as the game ended in a draw.

Saint Mary's had a 20-10 edge in shots and 9-4 advantage in corner kicks. Both teams recorded five saves while the Gaels were whistled for seven more fouls (17) than the Hornets (10).

Cesar Castillo earned the start in net for the Hornets as three keepers have played this season.

Head coach Michael Linenberger's squad has Sunday off as it gets ready for a big road trip. The Hornets play at UC Davis on Friday and at No. 6 ranked UC Santa Barbara on Sunday.