ATHERTON, Calif. – Cal Poly Humboldt opened its road contest against Menlo with an early goal but was unable to maintain the momentum, falling 3-1 to the Oaks on Thursday afternoon at Menlo College.

The Lumberjacks (0-2-1) took the lead in the 12th minute when Marcus Abdel-Malek netted his first goal of the season off a well-placed assist from Cooper Stephens. The goal marked a bright start for Humboldt, which looked to secure its first win of the season. However, Menlo (2-0-0) responded in the 37th minute with an equalizer from Saul Gutierrez, sending the teams into halftime tied at 1-1.

The Oaks took control in the second half. Mattia Celant scored the go-ahead goal in the 63rd minute, with an assist from Oliver Mayer. Just over 12 minutes later, Isak Haukefaer extended Menlo's lead with a goal assisted by Eder Carrasco and Liam Elliott, solidifying a 3-1 victory for the home side.

Humboldt managed six shots in the match, three of which were on target, but Menlo's defense held firm, limiting the Lumberjacks' opportunities. Menlo outshot Humboldt 13-6, with five of their shots on goal.

Cal Poly Humboldt goalkeeper faced a barrage of shots but managed two saves, both in the first half, to keep the score level going into halftime. Menlo's goalkeeper recorded two saves, both in the second half, to preserve the lead.

The game saw a total of 18 fouls, with eight called on Humboldt and ten on Menlo. Alex Lopez of Humboldt and Roy Rosenburg of Menlo were both shown yellow cards for their infractions.

Looking Ahead
The Lumberjacks will look to rebound in their next match this Saturday against Fresno Pacific (0-1-1) as they continue their search for the first win of the season. The Lumberjacks will face Fresno Pacific in a non-conference game at 1:00 PM from Wunderlich Field in Atherton, a neutral site venue for both teams. 

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.