ARCATA, Calif. – Cal Poly Humboldt stunned Cal State San Marcos with a late goal to secure a 1-0 victory, handing the Cougars their first loss of the season in an intense California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) clash on Sunday at College Creek Field in front of a full capacity crowd. Erwin Manibusan Jr. netted his first goal of the season and his collegiate career in the 81st minute, propelling the Lumberjacks (2-4-3, 1-1-1 CCAA) to an important conference win. The 'Jacks now sit in fifth place of the CCAA standings. 

With the victory, Humboldt not only captured its first home win of the year but also delivered a key setback to the previously undefeated Cougars (4-1-4, 0-1-1 CCAA), who had received votes in the national poll.

The match remained scoreless for most of the contest despite relentless pressure from the visitors. Cal State San Marcos fired 21 total shots, including eight on target, but Humboldt goalkeeper Adrian Gallardo was exceptional, tallying eight saves to keep the Cougars off the board.

The decisive moment came at the 80:43 mark when Manibusan Jr. capitalized on a well-orchestrated set piece, with assists from Cooper Stephens and Brandon Gutierrez. The senior midfielder's goal sent the home crowd into a frenzy and put the Lumberjacks in the driver's seat.

San Marcos continued to press after conceding the goal, but the Lumberjacks' defense held firm, aided by Chaney's standout performance between the posts.

Humboldt was outshot 21-7 overall, but their lone shot on goal proved to be the difference. The Cougars dominated in corner kicks (12-7) and controlled possession for much of the game, but were unable to crack Humboldt's defense.

The match saw physical play from both sides, with Humboldt being issued two yellow cards. Manibusan Jr. was cautioned in the 77th minute, followed by Jai Sternhall in the 87th minute, as the Lumberjacks battled to protect their lead.

Humboldt will look to carry this momentum forward as they continue CCAA play next weekend on the road.

Scoring Summary
80:43 – HUM – Erwin Manibusan Jr. (1), assisted by Cooper Stephens and Brandon Gutierrez  

Team Statistics
- Shots: San Marcos 21 (8 on goal), Humboldt 7 (1 on goal)  
- Saves: San Marcos 0, Humboldt 8  
- Corner Kicks: San Marcos 12, Humboldt 7  
- Fouls: San Marcos 10, Humboldt 7

The 'Jacks also signed post game autographs for Youth Soccer Day and welcomed Mad River Youth Soccer, Eel River Youth Soccer, Humboldt Youth Soccer, Emerald FC, and Sequoia FC to College Creek Field, putting the facility nearly at full capacity. 

Looking Ahead
Humboldt will travel to SoCal next week to face Cal State Dominguez Hills (3-4-2, 0-0-2 CCAA) on Friday at 4:30 PM and No. 2 Cal State LA (6-0-2, 1-0-1 CCAA) on Sunday at 11:30 AM. For more information on Cal Poly Humboldt Men's Soccer, please visit humboldtathletics.com, download our mobile app, and follow us on all social media platforms.