Fresno Pacific played tough at Clovis High School on Saturday defeating Vanguard 13-3 and losing to CSU East Bay 11-5. The Sunbirds took the time to recognize seniors Brittney Guerrero, Jenn Wolter, Katie Rayner and Melissa Perry in their last home games.
Jaimie Lugo led the Sunbirds with six goals on the day. Nicolette Haley, Jenn Wolter and Katie Rayner each had three goals, while Michelle Kaplan had two and Melissa Perry had one. Dani Mortimer had a great day in the cage with 32 saves.
Against Vanguard, Fresno Pacific controlled the game. In the second quarter the Sunbirds outscored the Lions 4-0 to break out to a 6-1 lead at half.
Fresno Pacific would put in seven more goals in the second half to take the 13-3 win.
"We came out strong against Vanguard," said head coach Bryan Suhovy. "Our thought processes were there. It was a great win for us."
CSU East Bay gave the Sunbirds a little more trouble in the second game. Fresno Pacific had difficulty with the Pioneer's counter attack, which allowed East Bay to go up 7-1 at the half.
The Sunbirds would play a much better second half, but East Bay held on to their lead to take the 11-5 win.
"East Bay is a solid program," said Suhovy. "They've been in and out of the top 20. We fought all the way through."
The Sunbirds will travel to Riverside next weekend to compete in the NAIA National Tournament.
The team's seniors had positive things to say about their experiences at FPU.
Brittney Guerrero
"It was really special to have been a part of the original team and to have had a hand in building this program. I love all these girls."
Jenn Wolter
"It's been a blast. We've been through a lot and I'm proud to be a part of the family we have here. I feel like the program is headed in the right direction. It's been a great experience."
Katie Rayner
"I wouldn't have had it any other way. It's been a lot of fun and I've learned a lot. I'm happy to have met all these girls. I'm very grateful."
Melissa Perry
"It's been a very unique experience. I'm glad to see the progression and the positive changes that the program has made, though it's still being built. I've enjoyed it."
