LOS ANGELES – The Lions delivered a statement on Sunday night at Sullivan Field, storming back from a goal down to topple crosstown rival UCLA, 2-1, in front of a roaring home crowd. The win evens LMU's record at 2-2-1 and sends the Lions charging into next week with momentum.

UCLA struck first in the 36th minute, but the Lions came out of the break determined to flip the script. The equalizer came in the 62nd minute when defender Ismail Nieves showed composure in traffic, taking a deft touch inside the penalty area before slotting the ball home on a quick finish for his second goal of the season.

With the match hanging in the balance, LMU kept pressing for a winner — and it came in spectacular fashion. In the 89th minute, Anthony Boyadjian received the ball on the left wing, cut inside with confidence, and unleashed a brilliant curling strike from just inside the box that bent past the keeper and into the far side netting. The stunning finish marked Boyadjian's first collegiate goal and sent Sullivan Field into chaos.

Between the posts, Philip Hovers was rock solid, making four key saves to anchor the defense and keep the Lions within striking distance. LMU finished with a 16-8 shot advantage and owned the late stages, showing grit, flair, and resilience to close out the rivalry win.

The Lions return to action on Thursday, Sept. 11, when they host Cal State Fullerton at Sullivan Field.