California Baptist University
2-4 overall
Cal State San Bernardino
7-0 overall
Local Lockdown
9/20/2014 4:20:00 PM | Women's Soccer
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. --- California Baptist University had one last nonconference test Saturday afternoon, facing the team that ended its postseason run last year in penalties. No. 25-ranked Cal State San Bernardino scored an early goal and held onto the 1-0 result to walk away victorious.
"Soccer is a 90 minute game," said head coach Kristen St. Clair. "We'll continue to refine the little things. We performed well, we were unfortunate not to get goals."
The Lancers drop to 2-4 in nonconference action, while CSUSB keeps its unblemished 7-0 record intact.
A misclearance in the Lancers' defensive third proved to be the difference maker as the Coyotes capitalized on the mishap off a long throw in just 13 minutes into the contest.
"It's always a challenge when you give up an early goal," said St. Clair. "I thought we responded well. We continued to fight back and created chances. That shows we're maturing."
CBU came out of halftime fired up in the second half, eager to find an equalizer and got a good look on frame from Justene Kesterson. Lindsay Vesling beat a defender to send a cross in and Kesterson sent her first touch on frame, forcing the Coyote goalkeeper to make a reaction save.
"CSUSB is a very good team," said St. Clair. "Their goalkeeper came up big."
The Lancers kept creating chances, but CSUSB held tightly onto its 1-0 lead despite the pressure from CBU.
"Our tough nonconference schedule was set up to prepare us for conference," said St. Clair. "I think we've made good progress. We played well against top teams in the region and nation, and dominated against most of those teams."
CBU opens PacWest play next week, heading to Dixie State to begin a five-game road swing.
"Dixie State is a good team, all of our conference is tough," said St. Clair, who's team returns home on Thursday, Oct. 16, hosting Academy of Art. "Road games are always difficult. We'll get back to work on Monday and focus on what we can control and our execution."
Team Stats
Susan Ibarra (2)
Assisted By: Kiana Quarles , Jessica Koch
off the throw in, scores from 5 yds in the box
12:25
