IRVINE, Calif. — The University of San Diego Toreros men’s soccer team rallied from a 1-0 halftime deficit to defeat the UC Irvine Anteaters 2-1 on September 8, 2026, at Anteater Stadium.
UC Irvine scored first in the ninth minute on a scramble, and held the lead through the first half during which San Diego managed three shots. At halftime, head coach Brian Quinn made five lineup changes that sparked a marked improvement in the Toreros’ play.
Early in the second half, substitute Conner Gardenhour scored the equalizer in the 53rd minute off a Tony Ramirez cross, marking Gardenhour’s first goal of the season. Just two minutes later, Taj Eagleston scored the game-winner with an acrobatic half volley from a rebound off the post, his second goal of the 2026 season.
Eagleston played all 90 minutes and led San Diego with five shots, including two on goal. Gardenhour needed only one shot in his 45 minutes to find the net. The Toreros outshot UC Irvine 14-6 overall, including 5-2 on target, with 11 of their 14 shots coming in the second half.
Goalkeeper Lucca Adams played the entire match, making six saves and allowing the lone goal. With the win, San Diego improved to 4-1-1 on the season, securing their second consecutive victory.
CSB Take
The University of San Diego men’s soccer team showed resilience and tactical adaptability in overcoming an early deficit against UC Irvine. The halftime changes by coach Brian Quinn energized the squad, resulting in a rapid pair of second-half goals that turned the tide. Maintaining this momentum and depth will be essential as the Toreros prepare for upcoming conference challenges and their rivalry match against San Diego State.
Source: Original report
