CLAREMONT, Calif. — Occidental College edged Pomona-Pitzer Colleges 2-1 on Saturday at Pomona-Pitzer Soccer Stadium. Occidental's decisive moment came when their player scored the game-winning goal in the second half. The visitors maintained a strong defense, allowing just one goal from the Sagehens, who had scored in the first half.

The first half commenced with Occidental establishing momentum early, as Devin Bening scored with an assist from Charlie Miller in the 19th minute, giving them an initial lead. Despite several fouls, the Tigers maintained pressure, generating scoring opportunities, including a corner kick shortly after the goal. As the half progressed, Pomona-Pitzer managed to equalize in the 39th minute with a goal by Charles Leonard, assisted by Townes Richardson. The half concluded with the score level at 1-1.

The second half began with Occidental maintaining pressure, leading to opportunities on goal. Although Kent Ortiz's shot at the 60th minute went over the top, it signaled an offensive push. Bening consistently threatened the Sagehens' defense, culminating in a pivotal moment when he scored in the 82nd minute, assisted by Elijah Edelman. Carlos Abram's save earlier in the half also kept the Tigers in control.

Occidental's persistent efforts in the latter half paid off as they secured a 2-1 lead by the end of the half.

Occidental Top Performers

Devin Bening  
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- two goals  
- four shots  
- two shots on goal  
- one game-winning goal  

Carlos Abram  
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- one save  
- six shots faced  

Elijah Edelman  
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- one assist  

Charlie Miller  
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- one assist  

Occidental holds a record of 6-5-4 overall and 4-3-3 in conference play. Pomona-Pitzer stands at 7-4-3 overall and 4-4-2 in conference competition. With Whittier's matchup with Chapman ending in a draw later in the evening on Saturday, the Tigers remain atop the SCIAC standings by two conference points. 

In their next game, Occidental will host California Lutheran University on October 29 in the 2025 regular season finale. The matchup is set for 7 p.m. in Los Angeles, providing a home-field advantage as they aim to secure a victory.