CALIFORNIA, Pa. - The Gannon men's soccer team has struggled during its early non-conference schedule, but it definitely put things together when it counted most. The Golden Knights opened Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) play Tuesday afternoon with a convincing 4-1 victory at California (Pa.) during the squad's first road affair of the season.

Gannon jumped on California early, out-shooting the Vulcans 11-5 and racing out to a 2-0 lead in the first half. Adam Sharbaugh (Sarver, Pa./Knoch) netted his first career goal in the 37th minute, finishing a series of passes from Afrim Latifi (Erie, Pa./Cathedral Prep) and Dan Howell (Erie, Pa./Iroquois). Latifi netted his fourth goal of the season 3:55 later off another assist from Howell.

Head coach Rob van Rheenen's squad extended its lead to 4-0 in the second half on an own goal and Sean Washek's (Fairview, Pa./Cathedral Prep) first career goal. California broke the shutout with 1:20 remaining in regulation.

Latifi led the way with a goal and assist. Gannon out-shot California 19-18, but the Vulcans owned an 11-2 edge in corner kicks. Steven Boehmer (Dayton, Ohio/Carroll) turned away six shots in goal. The match featured 22 fouls and nine yellow cards.

Gannon improved to 2-2-1 overall and 1-0 in the PSAC Western Division. California dropped to 3-2 overall and 0-2 in conference play. The Golden Knights return to action Saturday, September 12 at Lock Haven. Game time is scheduled for 3 p.m.

For a complete box score from Tuesday's Gannon-California men's soccer match, please click here.