Box score
Fresno, Calif. – The FPU women's soccer team took on another nationally ranked opponent this afternoon at Ramirez field, hosting #24 Concordia of Irvine in a Golden State Athletic Conference matchup. Despite giving up an early goal and eventually falling to CUI 1-0, the Sunbirds kept up with the Eagles stride for stride demonstrating immense heart, determination, and purpose in their play.
The only goal of the game came in the 2nd minute resulting from a controversial play which allowed the Eagles to counterattack and score. It appeared that FPU defender Diana Ortega was fouled, and then dispossessed by Concordia forward Siobhan McMorrow just inside the Eagles half. The center referee made no call and let play resume with the ball ending up at the feet of CUI's Kristi Nottinham on the left side of the field. Nottinham was able to get a cross off to the far post where teammate Monica Haynes met the ball to nod in a header for the game deciding goal.
With a lot of time to play, the Sunbirds remained composed, focused, and stuck to their game plan. They created a number of scoring opportunities that just missed the mark, with sophomore midfielder Jessica Pereschica hitting the crossbar on a header at one point. FPU recorded six shots and three corners to Concordia's seven shots and one corner during the first half of play.
The Sunbirds continued to play with intensity throughout the second half, almost scoring on a number of occasions. Junior forwards Ashley Sherr and Ida Rodriguez both had scoring chances on two breakaways which were blocked by a charging Eagle's goalkeeper, Jamie Carnie.
Rodriguez had what was probably the best opportunity for the Sunbirds to equalize late in the match. In the 85th minute, Sherr crossed the ball from the right side of the field to the far post. Rodriguez moved into the area, and sent the header back across the Eagle's goal only to have the ball ricochet off the side post and out back into play.
Both teams recorded eight shots in the second half, with the Sunbirds having one corner kick.
“I felt that we were just a little unlucky today,” said FPU head coach Erik Farfan. “The girls played a great game and made a strong defensive effort. We also know we had enough chances to equalize, and perhaps even win the game. We just have to search for ways to keep things in our control, finish our chances, and make our own luck.”
With the loss, the Sunbirds drop to 7-5-2 overall (3-5 GSAC) and will look to rebound in their next contest when they host The Master's College at Ramirez field Wednesday, October 29th. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:00PM.
