The Chico State women’s soccer team has ended their seven-game winning streak on the road against in a tie with Stanislaus State thanks to a late goal by the Warriors. It was not disheartening to the team though, as they have kept their unbeaten streak alive, now totaling to 13 games.
The Wildcats were dominating most of the first half, taking a respectable five shot attempts, while Stanislaus State fell slightly short with three shot attempts.
It seemed as though the first half was going to end with no one getting on the scoreboard. Susanna Garcia was not ready to allow that to happen and at minute 40 put the Wildcats up 1-0.
Stanislaus was unwilling to stay behind Chico State and came out strong in the second half. This caused the Wildcats to become more physical and fearless of their opponents. This was no problem for Nicole Marquez as she received a yellow card at minute 63.
It looked as though the women were going to take another win but a foul at minute 86 cost them the lead. Stanislaus forward, Sadie Ortiz, used this to her advantage and her sixth goal of the season tied it all up.
The game went on to overtime but both teams were unsuccessful in changing the score and took a point each. This has left Chico ranking No. 4 in the West Region in the inaugural 2018 NCAA West Regional with 23 points and three games left in the season.
The women prepare for their next game on the road against San Francisco State University on Sunday, Oct. 21 at 2 p.m.
The Chico State men were wired for what the warriors had in store for them. For most of the first half it seemed like it was getting nowhere as both teams had equal possession.
But as the half was about to end a cross by Samuel Licona was all Matt Hafizi needed to finish off the play with a header that put the Wildcats up 1-0. Making this Hafizi’s second goal of the season.
During the second half, the Warriors brought more energy to the field and had majority of the possession. But time was ticking and no ball they shot had successfully hit the back of the net.
At minute 60 it seemed as though Stanislaus State was ready to step up their game and be more physical. This took a consequence as Warrior, Daniel Galvez, received the first yellow card of the half.
Within the last five minutes Chico State did not stand down, and surprisingly goalkeeper, Damion Lewis, received a yellow card. Within that same minute Warrior Sean Bender also received a yellow card.
It was thought to be over, but Chico State lost focus allowing a very close shot by Stanislaus State at minute 88. Lewis made a brilliant save that allowed the Wildcats to cruise during the last two minutes to victory.
The Wildcats look to get another victory against San Francisco State on Sunday, Oct. 21 at 11:30 a.m.
Lucero Del Rayo can be reached at [email protected] or @del_rayo98 on Twitter.
