LOS ANGELES — La Verne edged Occidental College 1-0 on Saturday at W.C. Patterson Field at Jack Kemp Stadium. Despite the Tigers' 24 shots and eight on target, La Verne's defense held strong, with their goalkeeper making eight saves to secure the shutout. La Verne capitalized on one of their three shots on goal, scoring the decisive goal in the second half.

Occidental initiated the first half with Sammy Gramlich assuming the goalkeeping duties. Tyler Na-Nakornpanom quickly set the tone with an early shot, though it went wide. The Tigers maintained pressure with a series of attempts from Na-Nakornpanom and Aiden Aley, both of which were thwarted by La Verne's goalkeeper, Hector Duenas-Pena.

Vicente Navarro contributed two more shots, but the La Verne defense held firm. Gramlich made a crucial save against La Verne's Aidan Olufson, ensuring the score remained level. The first half ended scoreless, with both teams unable to capitalize on their opportunities.

The second half began with the Tigers pressing forward, attempting to equalize with early efforts from Ayden Rieke-Wey and Aley. However, La Verne capitalized on a chance in the 52nd minute when Diego Soto found the back of the net, putting the visitors ahead 1-0.

Occidental continued to apply pressure, highlighted by a penalty kick opportunity for Elijah Edelman. Unfortunately, the attempt was saved by La Verne's goalkeeper, Duenas-Pena. Despite a series of shots, including attempts by Navarro and Oscar Francis, the home team was unable to convert.

As the half progressed, the Tigers maintained their attacking momentum with multiple shots and corner kicks but were unable to break through La Verne's defense. The match concluded with La Verne holding onto their 1-0 lead.

Occidental Top Performers  

Sammy Gramlich  
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- two saves  
- eight shots faced  

Vicente Navarro  
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- four shots  
- one shot on goal  

Aiden Aley  
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- four shots  
- one shot on goal  

Devin Bening  
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- three shots  
- two shots on goal  

The Tigers hold a record of 4-5-4 overall and 2-3-3 in conference play. La Verne stands at 6-6-3 overall and 4-4-1 in conference play.