FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 29, 2026
Portland, Ore. | The Warner Pacific University men's soccer team wrapped up its preseason slate Saturday morning at home against Stanton University, suffering its first loss of the season in a tightly contested 2-1 decision.
Despite the Knights striking first, a late offensive surge from Stanton proved to be the difference as the visitors scored twice in the final 21 minutes to come from behind.
The opening half ended scoreless despite plenty of action from both sides. Stanton applied pressure early, but Warner Pacific's defense held firm throughout the opening 45 minutes. Goalkeeper Jonathan Flores played a key role in keeping the match level, recording five saves on Stanton's 10 first-half shots to send the teams into halftime tied at 0-0.
Warner Pacific broke through in the 56th minute when Felix Mendoza found the back of the net off an assist from Ethan Zavala, giving the Knights a 1-0 advantage. The goal marked Mendoza's first in a Warner Pacific uniform.
Stanton responded by increasing its attacking pressure and eventually found the equalizer in the 69th minute when Álvaro Florín scored to make it 1-1.
The visitors struck again eight minutes later, with Ethan Quarchioni scoring in the 77th minute to give Stanton its first lead of the match at 2-1.
Warner Pacific continued to battle down the stretch, looking for an equalizer and generating six shots during the second half. However, Stanton's defense held off the Knights' late push to secure the 2-1 victory.
Several Knights made key contributions in the contest. Mendoza led the attack with two shots on goal and Warner Pacific's lone goal, while Luis Gonzalez finished with three shots, including two on target. Flores provided another strong performance in goal, finishing with seven saves across the full 90 minutes.
Following the match, Warner Pacific head coach Troy Ready reflected on the result and the Knights' focus moving forward.
"We were in a great position during the second half leading the game, but then we had a few defensive breakdowns that ultimately cost us the match," Ready said. "Stanton is a quality group and will be very successful this season. Our focus now is taking the next few weeks to get healthy, progress, and be ready for conference play."
Next Up
With Saturday's match in the books, the Knights conclude their preseason with a 2-1 record and will now turn their attention toward conference play. Before beginning their conference schedule, the Knights will take part in an alumni game on Saturday at 6 p.m. at Providence Park.
