LA VERNE, CA — Striker Yahir Hernandez powered the University of La Verne men's soccer team to their second win of the season, netting the Leopards' lone goal in the 56th minute to seal a 1-0 victory over Chapman University in Wednesday night's non-conference matchup.

Midfielder Alexander Bastidas drove near the endline, drew in defenders, and sent a pass to Hernandez in the middle of the box. Hernandez delivered with a hard shot for the difference making goal. The Leopards finished seven shots total, with four on goal.

Goalkeeper and reigning SCIAC Defensive Athlete of the Week Hector Duenas-Pena kept his save percentage perfect against NCAA Division III squads at a perfect, stopping nine shot attempts from the Panthers to bring his total amount to an outstanding 23 saves through the Leopards first five games of the 2025 season. 

Shots: La Verne 7, Chapman 11

Saves: La Verne 9, Chapman 3

Corners: La Verne 5, Chapman 5

Fouls: La Verne 13, Chapman 12

Season Impact

The Leopards improved wo 2-1-2 overall and remain undefeated against DIII opponents.

Next up

The Leopards will open SCIAC play next Wednesday, September 17 when they host the Occidental Tigers at 7 p.m. at Ortmayer Stadium.