RICHARDSON, Texas — No. 1 Midwestern St. (1-0-0, 0-0-0) dominated Cal St. East Bay (0-1-0, 0-0-0) with a decisive 5-0 victory on Thursday at the UTD Soccer Complex.
Jose Ortiz scored four goals in his MSU debut, while setting a flurry of MSU single-game records and NCAA Division II history.
The match commenced with Midwestern St. showcasing a strong offensive effort. Despite multiple attempts, including shots by
Alan Rivera and
Parker Plaxco, the Pioneers were initially unable to capitalize. Their persistence was rewarded late in the period when
Jose Ortiz found the back of the net at 41:58, assisted by
Tanner Tea and
Davis Mays. Mays flicked on a long throw in from T. Tea, which Ortiz met on the volley to put the Mustangs ahead. The Pioneers struggled to contain Midwestern States's offensive pressure, as indicated by frequent fouls. The first period concluded with the Mustangs leading 1-0.
MSU extended its lead in the second period, beginning with Ortiz's goal at 50:30, assisted by
Eduardo Cerna, to make it 2-0.
Liam Kervick added to the tally with another goal at 59:21, taking down a long cross from
Cooper Tea than sliding the ball past the on-rushing keeper. Ortiz completed his hat-trick, scoring from close range after a missed penalty. The senior collected his fourth goal just 11 seconds later, catching the Pioneer defense napping and lifting the ball over the Pioneers keeper from 40 yards. These two rapid goals by Ortiz were the 4th fastest consecutive goals by the same player in Division II history, occurring just 11 seconds apart. The Maroon & Gold maintained control throughout, preventing Cal St. East Bay from scoring. The game concluded with Midwestern St. winning 5-0. The Mustangs also posted the 7th fastest time in Division II history for scoring three consecutive goals by the same team in just 2:24 (Kervick, 59:21, Ortiz, 61:34, and Ortiz, 61:45).
Jose Ortiz led the team with four goals, tying the program record for points (8) and goals (4) in a single game, including one game-winner, and converted all seven of his shots on goal. Mays, Cerna, T. Tea, and C. Tea all contributed with an assist, adding to the offensive effort.
Jake Morris recorded a shutout, making three saves throughout the match. Kervick also found the net, finishing with one goal from his two shots.
Adan Corona stood out for CSEB, making seven saves while facing 29 shots. Julian Valle was active on the offensive end, recording two shots, both on target. Bennett Richards also contributed with three shots, one of which was on goal, adding pressure to the opponent's defense.
Ortiz's four goals are the most by an MSU player in their debut, while setting facility records for goals (4) and points (8). The five goal margin of victory is the largest by the Mustangs on opening day since 2011, when MSU defeated Central Baptist (Ark.), 7-0, at Stang Park on Sept. 2, 2011. This marked the first time the Mustangs faced Cal St. East Bay in program history.
In their next game, the Mustangs will face Colorado Mesa on a neutral field. The matchup is set for Saturday, Aug. 29, at 2 p.m. in Richardson, Texas.
