The Chico State women’s soccer team opened its season in St. George, Utah on Thursday only to play to a 1-1 tie to Dixie State that was shortened by lightning.

Chico State struck first 16 minutes into the game with a goal by junior forward Nicole Roberts. It came with style as she headed the ball to the left post off of a throw-in.

While Chico quickly gained momentum, Dixie State answered right back with a goal from 20 yards out by Kimberly Thurman. The ball sailed over Chico State goalie Brianna Furner and into the net.

After that, the scoring stopped. The ‘Cats attempted 10 shots, six of them on target. Dixie State attempted nine shots, two of them being on target.

Furner, a senior, had a strong performance as she saved five shots as goalkeeper

The Wildcats will continue Saturday against California Baptist University, starting at noon in Riverside.

Ryan Grady can be reached at [email protected] or @RyanGrady23 on Twitter.