An early goal ended up being the deciding factor for host UC-Santa Cruz in an otherwise defensive battle for North Park Saturday afternoon in California.

Zach Hummel's tally in the 21st minute off an assist from Neal Hetzel held up for the Banana Slugs as they handed the Vikings their first loss of the season 1-0 in non-conference action.

Other than the goal, North Park played UC-Santa Cruz almost evenly as was evident in total shots (UC-NP; 15-14), corner kicks (6-5) and total saves (6-5).

North Park's closest opportunity at the equalizer came in the 81st minute when a header from Markus Fodstad off a corner kick from Pedram Tahmi-Masoleh just went high. North Park couldn't generate any other chances thereafter.

Both Tahmi-Masoleh and Fredrik Greiff finished with four shots each to lead the Vikings, while keeper Wesley Woodley made three saves in his first loss of the season.

North Park (5-1) looks to rebound Tuesday when it travels to the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh for a 4:30 p.m. contest.