Stanton Holds Hope International to Stalemate at Great Park

The Stanton University men's soccer team faced its toughest challenge yet on Wednesday evening, taking on Hope International University, the preseason favorite in the GSAC, at Great Park. In a competitive and high-intensity match, the Elks showed grit and determination, finishing with a 2–2 draw against one of the conference's top programs.

Stanton struck first behind the finishing touch of Max Hartbaum, who netted the opening goal to put the Elks ahead. Later, Lorenzo Jacon extended the lead with a strong effort, giving Stanton momentum and a two-goal cushion against the highly regarded Royals.

Hope International, however, demonstrated why they enter the season as the team to beat, clawing their way back into the match and ultimately leveling the score before the final whistle.

The result marks the second consecutive draw for Stanton, following their 2–2 season opener at Soka University. While still in search of their first victory of the 2025 campaign, the Elks remain optimistic as they continue to build under first-year head coach Vitor Gameiro.

"Back-to-back ties show that we can compete, but also that we still have steps to take," said Coach Gameiro. "The effort is there, and now it's about turning that into results. We are confident this group will continue to grow."

The Elks will now set their sights on their next matchup as they continue the pursuit of their first win of the season.