KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - After cancellations and postponements pushed back the start of Jessup's season four times, the Warriors finally got on the pitch Saturday up in Oregon. Jessup had to fight their way back after two early goals, ultimately falling to Oregon Tech by a 2-1 final.
 
"It was great to see our guys back on the field," said Head Coach Greg Lazaga. "After so many adjustments over the past year, to be able to compete was a milestone moment."
 
The Owls started their scoring very early, as just eight minutes into the match, they found the back of the net. OIT's Jake Mitchell swung a corner kick into the box, finding his teammate Brock Rideout who headed the ball in for the score. 
 
Just two minutes later, Mitchell would get a goal of his own to push the lead to 2-0 with just under 80-minutes of soccer still to be played. 
 
Jessup's first goal of the year came early in the second half. After the Warriors looked to set up most of their first-half chances off the counterattack, the Warriors pressed more in the final 45-minutes, firing off seven shots after just two in the first half.
 
Senior Paul Anderson handled the scoring for the Warriors Saturday, taking a pass from sophomore Josh Freeman within the box, then placing his shot past the goalkeeper's reach.
 
The Warriors had a couple of chances to even the game late, but unfortunately, of their nine shots, only two came on goal. 
 
"I thought we played to the game plan for about 70 minutes," added Lazaga. "If we can put together a complete 90, we will get a better result. I'm really looking forward to another opportunity for this group to get experience together and grow."
 
In goal for Jessup to start the season was senior Keegan Lewis. After the two early goals, Lewis settled in as he held the Owls scoreless for the final 80-minutes. Playing a full 90, Lewis recorded two saves.
 
The break in the action for the Warriors will not be long as they will be back at it tomorrow in Redding. After multiple attempts against Simpson were postponed due to weather, the Warriors and Red Hawks are all set to square off at 2 p.m.  
William Jessup University is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), and the Golden State Athletic Conference (GSAC). For additional information regarding Jessup Athletics, visit www.jessupathletics.com; visit www.jessup.edu for more information on William Jessup University. Follow Jessup Athletics on social media: William Jessup University Athletics (Facebook) and @JessupAthletics (Twitter and Instagram).