IRVINE, CALIF. – The Urban Knights (2-15-1, 2-11-0 PacWest) tied the match after an early 1-0 deficit, but were unable to withstand two second-half goals in the 2016 season finale.
 
The first half featured a strong attack from the Eagles (11-5-2, 10-3-0 PacWest), resulting in a goal in the 12th-minute. It was the first of two goals for Connor Gordon who finishes the year with the conference's second-most goals. Academy of Art would prove that they were still in the game, however, finding an equalizer in the 34th-minute. Junior midfielder Jonny Navarro was sent to the far corner for the team's second corner kick of the game. His cross soared straight to junior midfielder Dominic Payerchin who jumped in traffic to head the ball into the net. The goal was the Graphic Design major's team-leading third of the season and second in two matches. Payerchin also scored the Knights' lone goal against California Baptist on November 3 when he took a penalty kick in the 65th-minute. The Oakley, Calif. native's goal also makes him the only Urban Knight to score in consecutive games this season.

"Dominic always plays with a lot of heart and he's really developed himself as a player this year," said head coach Mike Keller. "It was great to see him score the past two games." 

Concordia looked to regain their lead in the half's remaining 15 minutes, but ART U's defense held fast, holding the Eagles to just one more shot in the period.
 
Entering the second half tied 1-1, Academy of Art looked to take the lead, but CUI was able to retake control of the match. Just under four minutes into the period, Concordia's Gordon found his mark for the second time in the contest, making the score 2-1. The Eagles would score once more when Ether Bustos found Julian Font in the 60th-minute.
 
With the win, Concordia solidified their second-place finish in the PacWest. However, the Urban Knights were able to post similar numbers to their opponent throughout the match. Overall, ART U finished with 13 shots (six on goal), compared to CUI's 15 looks (10 on goal). Sophomore goalkeeper Kevin Mendez matched his season high save total, compiling seven which he has collected on two other occasions.
 
With the loss, Academy of Art claimed 13th in the conference and will now return to San Francisco to prepare for the 2017 campaign. 

"While our record doesn't show it, the guys displayed a big improvement over the fall from start to finish," said Keller. "If that continues, we can expect big things in the future."