Elks Drop First Game of the Season

IRVINE, Calif. — In their second Cal Pac conference clash of the season, the Stanton Elks suffered their first loss of the season, falling 1-0 to the Westcliff Warriors on Saturday night at Championship Stadium. The result marked a reversal from their previous meeting just weeks earlier, when Stanton stunned the Warriors with a 3-1 upset.

Despite the scoreline, the Elks dictated much of the play, outshooting Westcliff 13-4 and applying steady offensive pressure throughout both halves. Westcliff goalkeeper Olly Scott proved to be the difference-maker, recording seven key saves to keep the Elks scoreless. Meanwhile, Stanton's Gianluca Suardi was not called into action, registering zero saves on the night.

"This isn't the result we hoped for," said Stanton head coach Vitor Gameiro. "The boys dominated the game, however it's nice to finally have competition. These are the kinds of matches that make us stronger."

The Warriors, who have endured a challenging season, managed to hold their ground and convert their few opportunities into a decisive goal. The loss marks Stanton's first blemish in an otherwise impressive campaign, as they continue to chase consistency in Cal Pac play.

With three conference matches remaining before the Cal Pac Championship in November, the Elks will look to rebound and regain the form that saw them take down Westcliff earlier in the season.