Neck and neck

Los Angeles -- Top-ranked UCLA played to a scoreless double-overtime tie against Cal Poly Sunday night at Drake Stadium. This marks the second-consecutive game for the Bruins that has ended in a scoreless draw.

“I thought we created enough to win the game ... we created some really good goal-scoring opportunities, but right now our guys are lacking a little bit of confidence, a little bit of assurance.” UCLA coach Jorge Salcedo said.

Bruins goalkeeper Earl Edwards recorded his second shutout in as many nights, totaling five saves, including two crucial back-to-back stops in the 86th minute to force the game into overtime. Edwards has not allowed a goal in over 279 minutes of play.

UCLA (3-1-2) got off to a quick start offensively, creating numerous chances in the first half. Larry Ndjock had two early opportunities including one in the 33rd minute. Leo Stolz legged a long pass to find Ndjock behind the Cal Poly (4-1-1) defense. Ndjock managed to beat the goalkeeper to the far side, but Cal Poly’s Brett Foreman was there to clear the ball before it crossed the goal line.

UCLA’s best chance of the second half came in the 60th minute when William Cline served a cross into the box that was deflected to Stolz who’s shot from point blank was stopped by Mustangs goalkeeper Wade Hamilton. Stolz would have another opportunity late in the first overtime session but it was Hamilton again proving up to the task.

The story of the night was the Bruin defense. The defensive corps proved solid with the likes of Edgar Contreras and Michael Amick making timely tackles. Their effort matched with the play of Edwards earned the Bruins a second-consecutive shutout.

“We went 220 minutes without giving up a goal on the weekend. I think that it’s been great for our group to see how well we can defend," Salcedo said. "Earl [Edwards] came up with a couple really big saves in this game. We’ve always known defensively we’d be really good, but the hardest part early on in the season is scoring goals.