Alassane Kane knocked home the lone score of the game as the American University men's soccer team opened 2012 with a 1-0 victory at Cal State Fullerton Friday night.

Kane's strike for American (1-0) came in the 32nd minute on a header off a cross from Cristobal Soto. For Kane, the Patriot League Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, it marked his 14th career goal in his 39th appearance as an Eagle.

Cal State Fullerton (0-1) had several game-tying opportunities in the second half, but was unable to beat AU goalkeeper Billy Knutsen. The Titans had arguably their best opportunity in the 73rd minute when Anthony Rosales' shot from close range was saved by Knutsen. Then 10 minutes later, CSUF's Jesse Vega found space to Knutsen's left, but his tough-angled shot sailed wide right.

Knutsen made a career-high eight saves as he registered his fourth-career shutout.

CSUF held an 18-10 advantage in shots with a slight 8-7 margin in shots on goal. The Titans earned six corner kicks compared to two for American.

The Eagles will conclude play in the Cal State Fullerton Tournament on Sunday, August 26 when they face Cal State Northridge at 2:30 p.m. EST. The Matadors defeated Portland, 4-0, earlier on Friday in a match that was also played at Cal State Fullerton.