LAS VEGAS – The Aztec men's soccer team (1-1-0) came from behind to beat UNLV (0-2-0) on the road 3-2 in extra time Monday evening. Freshman Hunter George scored two goals including the game-winner in the 97th minute.
"So much character was displayed tonight," Head coach Lev Kirshner praised after the match. "I am so happy for their earned victory."
After falling behind 1-0, the Aztecs rallied to take the lead 2-1 in the 75th minute only to see the Rebels respond with the equalizer three minutes later.
Senior captain Pablo Pelaez assisted SDSU's first and second goal. Tevenn Roux scored the go-ahead goal in the 75th minute and assisted George's game-winner. Defenders Dane Rozas and Mac Clarke also recorded assists.
The Aztecs started out slow and allowed seven UNLV shots (three on goal) in the match's first 20 minutes. The Rebels got on the board in the 17th minute when Nick Williams headed in a Clasen Nico corner kick.
Shortly after that, the Aztecs were awarded a PK but Pablo Pelaez's attempt went off the crossbar.
"At the hydration break in the 25th minute, I challenged the group hard and they responded in droves," Coach Kirshner said.
SDSU went into the halftime break down 1-0 after being outshot 10-7 in the opening frame, but the momentum had begun to shift the Aztecs' way in the first half's final 15 minutes.
Freshman Hunter George tied the match up in the 59th minute with his first collegiate goal. He was assisted by a nice pass from Pelaez.
The Aztecs took the lead in the 75th minute when Tevenn Roux found the back of the net with the help from assists from Pelaez and senior defender Dane Rozas.
The SDSU lead didn't last long as the Rebels tied the match at 2-2 in the 78th minute.
SDSU held a 10-5 shot advantage in the second half and controlled the momentum in extra time, outshooting the Rebels 4-0.
George scored the game-winner in the 97th minute with assists from Roux and senior captain Mac Clarke.
Goalkeeper Max Watkin earned the win in his first start of the season and collected two saves.
MAN OF THE MATCH
Freshman Hunter George – Two goals including game-winner
STAT OF THE MATCH
After being outshot 10-7 in the first half, the Aztecs held a 14-5 advantage in the match's final 52 minutes. SDSU ended up with 21 shots to UNLV's 15.
THE NOTE
This is the first time the Aztecs have scored three goals in a match since November 11, 2017. A 4-0 win over UCLA.
QUOTE OF THE MATCH
"Every guy who came off the bench helped us out and I would be remiss if I didn't personally acknowledge Dane Rozas, Pika (Arturo Chavez) and Hunter's game-changing efforts." Head Coach Lev Kirshner
UP NEXT
The Aztecs return home this weekend for the annual Courtyard Marriott San Diego Central Aztec Soccer Classic. They host Belmont Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. and then Detroit Mercy Sunday at 6:00 p.m. Admission to all home SDSU soccer matches is free.
Aztecs Down UNLV 3-2 in Extra Time
