The Watch debuts during men’s soccer’s thrilling home opener

VALLEJO, Calif. – In front of a spirited crowd of cadets, faculty and staff that celebrated the debut of The Watch, Cal Maritime's official spirit section, men's soccer's defense came up huge throughout Tuesday's 2022 home opener at Bodnar Field throughout most of the match.

Even though William Jessup scored the first goal of the game shortly before halftime, that counterattack marked the only blemish in a solid first half for the Keelhaulers.

Once action resumed after halftime, Cal Maritime freshman Jose Diaz nearly tied the score by firing a shot that knocked Warrior goalkeeper Nick Forry backwards due to the sheer pace of that attempt.

When the Warriors headed back the other direction, a deflected pass ultimately led to a shot that ended up in the back of the Keelhaulers' net, followed by the final goal of the night, scored on a one-timer that originated from a WJ corner in a game that pushed the visitor's lead to the game's final score, 3-0.

Outside that brief block of time in the second half when William Jessup extended its lead, Cal Maritime soccer fans had plenty to cheer for since its offense came alive after halftime and forced the Warriors to make five saves — all dangerous scoring opportunities — to protect their advantage.

As was the case, CSUM's defense turned in one solid play after another; this young squad — 10 freshmen and another two newcomers are part of this season's roster — showcased their poise yet remained aggressive on both halves of the field throughout the latter portion of the match.

Led by Diaz with four, all on goal, eight different Keelhaulers recorded a shot. In his inaugural home game at CSUM, Nic Kashiwai recorded the other attempt on goal.

Tuesday's contest is the only one slated to take place at Bodnar Field since the team's next five straight are on the road, starting with Friday's Cal Pac opener at Benedictine Mesa. The Keelhaulers' next game on their home turf is set for October 6 when Antelope Valley visits Vallejo in the inaugural home league game of 2022 — the first of a four-game homestand against league foes.