LOS ANGELES — Occidental College fell to Whittier College 2-1 on Wednesday at W.C. Patterson Field at Jack Kemp Stadium. The Poets scored both of their goals in the first half, securing a lead that the Tigers could not overcome despite a second-half goal. The Tigers dominated in shot attempts with 20, compared to Whittier's eight, but were unable to capitalize on their opportunities.

The first half began with the Tigers applying early offensive pressure, taking multiple shots and earning corner kicks within the initial 10 minutes. Despite these efforts, Whittier capitalized on a chance in the 16th minute when Rowan Slater scored, assisted by Nils Degardin, putting Occidental at a 0-1 disadvantage.

Occidental continued to press, with Elijah Edelman and Colton Sheffert among those attempting to level the score, but the Poets' defense held firm. In the 42nd minute, Fabian Gluch extended the visitor's lead, making it 0-2 after an assist from Patrick Nolan. Occidental ended the half without scoring, trailing 2-0.

The second half commenced with the Tigers looking to shift the momentum after a challenging first half. The team's persistence paid off in the 68th minute when Cooper Gersch scored, assisted by Edelman, cutting Whittier's lead to one. Despite generating multiple scoring opportunities, including a shot on goal by Matthew Shea saved by the opponent's goalkeeper, Occidental couldn't find an equalizer. The half concluded with the Tigers trailing 2-1.

Occidental Top Performers  

Carlos Abram  
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- one save  

Cooper Gersch  
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- one goal  
- two shots  
- one shot on goal  

Eddie Siladie  
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- one assist  
- three shots  
- one shot on goal  

Colton Sheffert  
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- four shots

Occidental fell to 2-4-2 overall and 0-2-1 in conference play following the loss. The Poets remained undefeated at 7-0-1 overall and 1-0-1 in conference action.

The next challenge for the Tigers takes them on the road to Pasadena, CA, where they will face off with Caltech. The match is set for October 4th, kicking off at 4:00pm.