Trent Rickard scored two goals as The Master’s University (0-1) men’s soccer squad opened its season with a 5-2 loss to Occidental College Friday, Sept. 5 in Los Angeles.

Occidental came out swinging as TMU gave up three first half goals in a span of 12 minutes, which the Tigers used to coast to a three-goal victory.

“We came out really flat and they punished us for it,” TMU Head Coach Jim Rickard said. “We made a couple of errors and gave up some tough goals. Something that is totally fixable though.”

Rickard’s first goal came shortly after halftime at the 47th-minute mark to narrow the gap to 3-1, with his second coming on a penalty kick in the 74th minute. However, Occidental scored again with 16 minutes to go and with nine minutes remaining to push the lead to 5-2 and seal the game.

“We switched it up though in the second half and were able to get some momentum,” Coach Rickard said. “It’s just tough when you’re already down 0-3.”

The Mustangs nearly matched the Tigers in shots (16-17) and shots on goal (6-7) but Occidental was able to capitalize on their opportunities.

Rickard led TMU with seven shots with Jo Yokota, Zach Rodriguez, and Kai Terentieff each adding two shots. Evan Hurley recorded a shot on goal and TMU goalkeepers Hansen Anderson and Julian Graham each notched a save.

It doesn’t get any easier for the Mustangs as TMU will have to face NAIA opponent Eastern Oregon Monday, Sept. 8 at home before hosting California Lutheran on Thursday, Sept. 11.

For more information visit GoMustangs.com.