LOS ANGELES, Calif. — For the second time in three seasons, Occidental men's soccer is the SCIAC Tournament Champion.

Occidental secured a 1-0 victory over the University of Redlands on Saturday at W.C. Patterson Field. The decisive goal came in the second half, with Occidental registering a total of 19 shots, seven of which were on target. The defense also played a critical role, with the goalkeeper recording one save to maintain the shutout. The Bulldogs managed only five shots and were unable to break through Occidental's defense.

The first half began with Occidental establishing an early offensive presence, as Kent Ortiz initiated a shot attempt saved by Redlands' goalkeeper Brady Bachman in the fourth minute. Despite a series of fouls and offsides calls against the Tigers, the team maintained pressure with multiple shot attempts, including efforts from Devin Bening and Charlie Miller.

Occidental continued to apply offensive force with Aiden Aley and Ethan Carr each taking shots, but the Redlands defense held firm. Tyler Na-Nakornpanom's attempt was saved in the 41st minute, keeping the score level. The half ended with neither team able to break the deadlock, concluding at 0-0.

The second half began with Occidental maintaining momentum and quickly creating scoring opportunities. A series of shots, including attempts by Elijah Edelman and Aiden Aley, tested the Bulldogs' defense early. Despite several saves by Redlands' goalkeeper Bachman, Miller broke through in the 64th minute with a goal, assisted by Edelman, to give Occidental the lead.

Occidental continued to press, with additional shots from Bening and Justin Nishimoto, but Bachman remained active in goal. Redlands mounted some pressure late with a corner and a shot saved by Sammy Gramlich, but they could not find an equalizer. The half concluded with Occidental holding a 1-0 lead.

Occidental Top Performers  

Devin Bening  
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- four shots  

Elijah Edelman  
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- one assist  
- three shots  
- one shot on goal  

Charlie Miller  
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- one goal  
- two shots on goal  
- three shots  

The Tigers earn the SCIAC's automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. They will learn their fate on Monday at the selection show.