Despite being reduced a player shortly after second half play resumed, the Sunbird women's soccer team pulled off the "10 woman win" in style by defeating Holy Names University 5-2 Tuesday afternoon in Berkley, CA. 

After having taken the lead twice and ahead 2-1 at the time, the Sunbirds were caught on a counter attack and FPU defender Danielle Dickie received a red card for committing an apparent foul on a Hawk player that was goal-bound on a breakaway.

Holy Names Erica Udell (Central High) converted the direct free kick in the 59th minutes that had been awarded for the red card offense to tie it at 2-2.

Although reduced to 10 players, Dickie's ejection seemed to galvanize the FPU squad. The Sunbirds went on to score three more times in the final 30 minutes of play. Goals by seniors Diana Ortega and Mayra Garcia (2), and junior Jessica Pereschica (2) capped off the 5-2 victory.

"We were really pleased with how the team came together despite going a man down," commended FPU head coach Erik Farfan. "Red cards are part of the game, but how you respond to those situations can be true indications of a team's character. I thought we responded well today...and built some character."

FPU's Garcia opened the game's scoring with a 30 yard blast to record her first of the afternoon which gave the Sunbird an early 1-0 lead. 

In response, HNU's Udell equalized in the 26th minute off another direct free kick for the first of two on the day for her. 

Fresno Pacific's Pereschica wrapped up the first half scoring to give the Sunbirds the 2-1 halftime lead.

"Mayra (Garcia), D (Ortega), and Jessica (Pereschica) all scored outstanding goals today," Farfan added. "Goals like those can decide games and win championships."