SEATTLE -- Utah Valley University saw its season come to an end in heartbreaking fashion when Grand Canyon University got a golden goal in the 97th minute in the opening match of the 2018 WAC Men's Soccer Tournament. 

The Wolverines (9-9-0) were on goal nine times during regulation but could not find the would-be game-winner. The Lopes (10-8-0) were limited to just two shots on goal for the match, but got the game-winner from Sam Gardner in the first overtime. Esai Easley and Alex Radilla had assists on the goal. 

"Our performance today was fantastic and I honestly couldn't be more proud. We were exceptional in possession, on set pieces, and flat-out unlucky to not find the back of the net in one our our nine shots on goal in regulation," UVU head coach Greg Maas said. "I'm heartbroken for the team, and in particular, our seniors who gave everything they had into this match and for our program. I will forever be grateful for their contributions, and their legacy will continue to inspire our current and future players for years to come." 

UVU finished with 13 shots overall, to 10 from GCU. Grand Canyon goalkeeper George Tasouris finished with nine saves in earning the shutout win. The Lopes now draw top-seed and No. 13 Air Force on Friday in the first of two semifinal matches. 

The loss for the Wolverines is their third straight overtime loss to end the season. Grand Canyon also picked up a golden goal in a contest on Oct. 26 in Phoenix, scoring in the final minute of the first overtime. 

The seniors whose careers came to a close after Wednesday's loss are Austin Buxton, Blake Leonetti, Marshall Miller, Ben Perkins, Elliott Rubio and Diego Serna.