FRESNO, CA - The Fresno Pacific women's soccer team had to wait an extra day to play Westmont College following Tuesday's postponement due to inclement weather, and nine years to actually defeat them.
After falling behind early, two goals by junior Jessica Pereschica helped the Sunbirds complete a 3-1 come-from-behind win against the Warriors Wednesday afternoon at Ramirez field. This is the first time in Program history FPU has defeated Westmont in women's soccer.
To their credit, the Warriors got off on the right foot to begin the match scoring a goal in the 24th minute. WC's Amanda Barret shot from outside the 18 yard box after receiving a mis-cleared FPU ball to put the Warriors out in front 1-0, and in control of the game.
After a rough opening 20 minutes, FPU settled in and began to play with more sharpness. The Sunbird's hard work finally paid off in the 38th minute when Ida Rodriguez slotted a pass to Pereschica who had made a well-timed horizontal run along WC's 18 yard box. Pereschica ran onto the ball and buried the 1v1 past Westmont goalkeeper Roxanne Love for the equalizer.
Two minutes later, FPU's Diana Ortega took advantage of a quick restart opportunity following a Westmont foul called just outside the Warrior's penalty area. Before Westmont was organized and ready, Ortega slipped a pass to Pereschica who was just inside the 18 yard box and slotted her second of the match giving FPU the 2-1 lead.
The Sunbirds continued to control large segments of the game as play progressed into the second half and finished the game with a 12-7 advantage in shots, and a 2-0 edge in corners.
After an impressive defensive effort in the second half, FPU's Demi Hamilton sealed the deal with a toe poke goal she shot after receiving a pass from teammate Ashley Sherr. Hamilton's shot snuck through the legs of a surprised Love to make it a 3-1 final score.
"We are really happy with this result and proud of the team for this accomplishment," said FPU head coach Erik Farfan referring to the Sunbird's first ever win over Westmont. “We showed tremendous team spirit and determination to comeback today, and are really dangerous when we connect and circulate the ball."
With the win, the Sunbirds improve to 8-3 overall, and are 3-2 in GSAC play. FPU will host San Diego Christian this Saturday, October 17th. Kickoff is scheduled for 12pm.
