LAS VEGAS (UNLVRebels.com) — UC Irvine rode a 66th-minute goal to an opening night 1-0 victory against UNLV Thursday at Anteater Stadium in Irvine, California.

UC Irvine junior Noah Clarkson scored the lone goal in his collegiate debut. Clarkson poked a pass just inside the right post after teammate Francesco Montanile was able to cradle the loose ball from inside a scrum.

The score ended a stalemate that saw each team with just one shot on target until that point.

UNLV managed one more shot in the 78th minute when freshman Tyler Ware's effort lifted over the crossbar.

The Rebels have a week to recuperate before game two. UNLV hosts Santa Clara at Peter Johann Memorial Field on Thursday, Aug. 31. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. 

The Rebel Soccer Foundation will host a free tailgate for all fans with a ticket for game admission starting at 5:30 p.m.