The Simpson University Red Hawks men’s soccer team was narrowly defeated by the Westcliff Warriors 2-1 in their California Pacific Conference home opener on October 2, 2026, at California Soccer Park in Redding, Calif.
Westcliff took an early lead in the 17th minute with a goal from Dan-Lewis Bamana. Simpson responded in the 29th minute when Silvestre Quintero scored on an assist from Jonathen Garcia Virgen to even the score at 1-1. The goal marked Quintero’s sixth of the season, while Garcia Virgen was making his first appearance back from injury.
The decisive goal came in the 60th minute as Westcliff’s El Hadj Hamzaoui converted a loose ball following a save by Simpson’s goalkeeper Julian Mejia. Westcliff maintained offensive pressure throughout the second half, outshooting Simpson 16-2 to protect their 2-1 advantage.
Mejia recorded seven saves during his time in goal but was credited with the loss. Westcliff’s goalkeeper Olly Scott earned the win after making four saves. Simpson’s next match is scheduled against Stanton University at 12:30 p.m. Sunday at California Soccer Park.
CSB Take
The Red Hawks demonstrated competitive resilience in evening the score, notably through Silvestre Quintero’s impactful goal aided by Jonathen Garcia Virgen’s return from injury. However, Westcliff’s sustained offensive pressure underscored areas for Simpson to strengthen, particularly defensively, to better control possession and limit shooting opportunities against conference opponents. Looking ahead, Simpson University must focus on tightening defensive organization and leveraging key players to rebound effectively as conference play progresses.
Source: Original report
