Cal Poly’s men’s soccer team opened its season with a 2‑2 draw against the University of Denver on August 20, 2026, in a match that blended tight defensive work with a late rally. The Mustangs entered the game looking to build on a strong offseason, and they quickly took the lead when Colin Pearce redirected a cross from Keagan Rhodes into the net in the 24th minute.
A Record Night for the Mustangs
Denver answered eight minutes later when Erik Collins chipped his first collegiate goal after a cross from Ethan Orchard, leveling the score at 1‑1. The Pioneers briefly seized the lead in the 51st minute after a misplayed ball was won by Keegan Kelly, but Cal Poly’s resilience shone through as Charlie Hogan redirected a pass from Peyton Marmion to restore parity in the 89th minute.
The defensive effort was a highlight, as Cal Poly allowed only three shot attempts — a tally that matches a program record achieved on six previous occasions, the last coming in 2019. Goalkeeper Mathew Guerra made his collegiate debut, stepping into the lineup after Nicky McCune, a two‑time Big West Goalkeeper of the Year, started all 39 matches over the past two seasons before graduating.
Freshman midfielder Peyton Marmion earned his first collegiate point after playing 58 reserve minutes, underscoring the depth of talent on the roster. The draw sets the stage for the Mustangs’ next challenge: a road trip to face UC Davis on August 23, marking their first Pac‑12 contest since joining the conference.