CHICO -- Cal State LA's men's soccer team faced some adversity Sunday before a strong second half lifted the Golden Eagles to a conference draw at Chico State.

The Golden Eagles, the defending NCAA Division II champions, surrendered an early goal to the Wildcats, but got the equalizer early in the second half and the two California Collegiate Athletic Association contenders battled to a 1-1 draw in University Soccer Stadium. No. 7 Cal State LA (7-1-2, 1-1-2 CCAA) and Chico State (4-3-4, 1-1-2 CCAA) both have five points after four conference games.

After Miles Rice gave the Wildcats a 1-0 lead in the 11th minute, the Golden Eagles fought back to get the equalizer, which came in the 51st minute. Bryan Ortega took a shot in the box that was blocked and Alex Rodriguez got to the rebound and chipped a left-footed shot past Chico State goalkeeper Luis Albarran. It was the third goal of the season for Rodriguez and the second assist of the season for Ortega.

Cal State LA had a 15-7 advantage in shots, while Chico State had a 5-2 edge in corner kicks. The Golden Eagles had advantage in shots in both halves - 7-4 in the first and 8-3 in the second.

Alvaro Unanua had one save for the Golden Eagles, while Albarran had two saves for the Wildcats.

Oretega had three shots for the Golden Eagles, while Rodriguez and Oscar Warne had two shots each. 

Cal State LA will return to action on Thursday at Cal State San Marcos before its next home game next Sunday, Oct. 9. against Cal State San Bernardino.