Box Score KANEOHE, HI (September 13, 2014) – The Hawai'i Pacific Men's Soccer Team (2-2-1) lost its first home game of the season against the University of Hawai'i Hilo in a non-conference matchup (1-2) 3-1.
 
HPU started well in the first game of the season on home soil after two games on the mainland. Early on, Ryo Sugihara dribbled from the midfield into the box, but was just stopped at the last second with hard tackling from the Vulcan's defense.
 
In the ninth minute, Brais Garcia, who already scored three goals this season, headed the ball into the goal after a corner kick from Erik Kemsies. Goal getter Garcia is now leading the PacWest Scorer Board with a total of four goals.
 
HPU had more good chances during the first half, including a solid shot from Christopher Galang that missed the goal just by a few inches.
 
After the changeover, the Vulcans started to play more aggressively and after a goal from the right side of the box, they tied score in the 48th minute.
 
UHH's fast play managed to bring HPU off course, resulting in more chances for the Vulcans. After a foul outside the box, UHH took the lead with a direct free kick, not giving the keeper any chance.
 
In the further course of the game, the Sharks tried everything to tie the game, but could not overcome Hilo's inexorable defense.
 
In its effort to tie the game and to push forward, HPU had to open up space, resulting in some counterattacks from Hilo. After an unlucky bounce back in the box, the Vulcans were able to make the score 3-1 (67').
 
The Sharks kept a fighting spirit during the last minutes, recording a good header from Nahoa Salera after a long cross and a volley shot from Christopher Campbell that narrowly missed.
 
The Vulcans also led in shots (14-11) and shots on goal (9-6). 
 
The Sharks will now travel to California and to play traditional power Sonoma State on September 23rd in Rohnert Park.