PASADENA, Calif. — Occidental College defeated the California Institute of Technology 5-1 on Wednesday at Caltech North Field. Occidental's offensive charge was led by a strong first-half performance, scoring three goals and maintaining pressure with 17 total shots on goal. Caltech managed a single goal in response, but Occidental's defense held firm, with their goalie recording three saves to secure the victory.

Occidental's first half began with an early challenge, as Caltech's Matthew Luk scored in the 5th minute to put the home team ahead. However, Occidental quickly found their stride. A penalty kick by Aiden Aley in the 18th minute equalized the score, setting the tone for the remainder of the half.

Occidental maintained the pressure, and Ayden Rieke-Wey capitalized with a goal in the 29th minute to give Occidental the lead. Oscar Francis extended the advantage with a goal in the 38th minute, rounding out a strong first-half performance. The period concluded with Occidental leading 3-1.

The second half commenced with Occidental maintaining pressure, leading to a goal by Devin Bening in the 67th minute, assisted by Aley, extending Occidental's lead. Shortly after, Francis found the net in the 74th minute, further increasing the visitors' advantage. Carlos Abram contributed defensively with a key save on a shot by Caltech's Jack Myles in the 79th minute.

Occidental continued to control the pace, limiting Caltech's opportunities and maintaining their offensive efforts, as evidenced by multiple shots including ones by Joshua Lang and Isaac Wright. The half concluded with Occidental securing a 5-1 victory, solidifying their performance with a strong second half.

Occidental Top Performers  

Carlos Abram  
----------------------  
- three saves  

Devin Bening  
----------------------  
- two shots  
- one shot on goal  
- one goal  

Aiden Aley  
----------------------  
- two shots  
- two shots on goal  
- one goal  
- one assist  

Ayden Rieke-Wey  
----------------------  
- three shots  
- two shots on goal  
- one goal  

Oscar Francis  
----------------------  
- three shots  
- three shots on goal  
- two goals  

Occidental moved to 3-4-2 overall and 1-2-1 in conference play following their victory. 

In their next game, Occidental will travel to Redlands, CA, to face the University of Redlands on October 4. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. as Occidental looks to secure a road victory.