BAKERSFIELD, Calif. --- UC Irvine's men's soccer began its 2017 season with a resounding 2-0 victory over Bakersfield Saturday evening on Main Soccer Field.

The 'Eaters got a first half goal in the 22nd minute from former Roadrunner Giovanni Godoy putting away the eventual game-winner from Erick Gallinar and Daniel Crisostomo to put the Anteaters ahead, 1-0. 

Alex Waldron held his position in goal saving two shots to keep the 1-0 lead through the half.

UCI built on its advantage on a silky strike from Alvaro Quezada in the 59th minute extending the lead to 2-0. Waldron added a third save to conserve the shutout and post a 2-0 victory in the Anteaters' exhibition match.

UCI scores a victory in head coach Yossi Raz's debut at the helm, and now the team takes its show to No. 9 Louisville for the season opener on Friday, Aug. 25 with a 4:30 p.m. Pacific start.