RIVERSIDE, Calif. - The shorthanded Sea Lions pulled off one of the biggest upsets in recent memory Wednesday when they defeated NAIA No. 5-ranked California Baptist 2-0. PLNU's defense locked down the Lancer offense, limiting CBU to just three shots on goal, while Erick Melendez and Matt Garrett each scored in the second half.

Point Loma's task against the first-place Lancers was a daunting one.  Not only was Loma playing on enemy territory, the team has been struggling. Entering the match the Green and Gold had just one win in the GSAC, which had them tenth in the conference standings.

To make matters worse, the Sea Lions were without three starters: forwards Austin Rovazinni and Austin Fares are injured and midfielder Francois Furlan is on a red card suspension. Yet, somehow, someway, PLNU played their best game of the year.

It started with defense. The starting back line of Macine Piercy, JJ Reading, Grant Cowles and Paul Fuchs closed the scoring lanes. When CBU did send in an accurate shot, Carter Phillips was there, the PLNU freshman netminder snaring three saves.

“We came in with the attitude: 'we got nothing to lose,'” said PLNU Head Coach Tim Hall. “Sometimes when you play a good team like that, you just know you have to work hard and hope for the best. We had a game-plan and played smart soccer. They stepped up and got it done.”

The opening 45 minutes was scoreless though the two sides combined on 13 shots, four of which were on goal.

Point Loma broke the deadlock in the 59th minute when Melendez scored off a deflection. Griffin Fuller was credited with the assist.

The two GSAC rivals utilized mass subbing in attempt to get some fresh players into the game. CBU was able to take four shots over the next 25 minutes, but all were off target.

“Everyone played,” said Coach Hall. “Both sides gave it their all.”

After the fourth Lancer attempt the Sea Lions gained control of the ball and managed their first threat since Melendez's score. PLNU made good on the opportunity when Garrett headed in an insurance goal in the 84th minute, Tyler Hall with the assist.

The Sea Lions played keep-away from that point on and neither side took a shot over the final six minutes of action.

“The guys wouldn't quit,” said Coach Hall. “It was incredible. We played great defense, took our chances on offense and finished  when we need to. It was incredible today, a total team effort.”

PLNU improved to 5-7 overall, 2-4 GSAC and dropped the CBU to 11-2, 5-1 GSAC. The Sea Lions return home on Saturday to host Westmont at 1:00 pm.