ORANGE, Calif. - The Pacific Lutheran University men's soccer team wrapped up its non-conference slate on Monday afternoon, stumbling 2-1 to host Chapman University in double overtime.

"Even though we lost today we made some significant improvements in some team goals we set for ourselves," said Head Coach John Yorke. "The guys had a great effort on a short turnaround and I was proud of how hard they worked for each other. Overall it was a productive non-conference and we are looking forward to the start of NWC play."
 
The host Panthers (4-2) drew first blood with Ryan Onart finding the back of the net in the fifth minute. The Lutes (4-2) quickly responded with Joe Sammartino netting the equalizer in the 17^thminute off an assist from Chris Trussel. It was Sammartino's team-leading third goal of the season while Trussel logged his second assist of the year.

"Joe scoring goals is a positive for us. He needs to have a good year in that area and is off to a good start. I think we have nine players that have scored goals already this year so getting production from a lot of different guys is good."
 
Neither team was able to gain separation the rest of regulation, forcing sudden death overtime. Kai Howe played the role of hero for Chapman, scoring in the 107^thminute to give the hosts the win.
 
RJ Noll played all 107 minutes between the posts for PLU, making seven saves on the day while Chapman had Chandler Siemonsma and Jaxson Thornton share time in net, combining for three saves. 
 
Chapman owned a 14-11 edge in shots and a 9-4 advantage in shots on target while the Lutes enjoyed an 8-5 lead in corner kicks.

PLU opens up Northwest Conference play on Saturday with a 2:30 p.m. tilt against Willamette University at East Field.