The Colorado Mesa University men’s soccer team opened their season with two losses in California last weekend. The Mavs dropped their first match 2-1 against Cal State-Dominguez Hills, followed by a 3-0 loss at Cal State Los Angeles.

In the season opener, The Toros struck first with an early goal in the 7th minute from the foot of Billy Gutierrez. However, the Mavs answered when redshirt freshman Phil Neuwirth netted his first collegiate goal.

“It was crossed from the right side and it bypassed the keeper,” redshirt freshman Steve Palma said. “Phil just had to tap it in the net.”

But the Toros got the best of the Mavs as Miguel Vasquez scorched the game winner in the 79th minute.

In Saturday’s match, Cal State Los Angeles caught fire early, scoring all three of their goals in less than 20 minutes and before halftime. The Golden Eagles outshot the Mavs 17-6 in the match and limited CMU possession. The Mavs only landed one shot on net and were shut out in the loss.

“We could improve on offense by shooting more,” Palma said. “The more shots we take, the more chances we create to score goals.”

The Mavs will open their home schedule on Sept. 9 at 7 p.m. against Dixie State at Walker Field, and will continue their homestand against Adams State on Sept. 11 at 3 p.m.

dlmeyer@mavs.coloradomesa.edu