FRESNO, Calif. - The FPU Women's soccer team played out a 0-0 draw with Biola University on Saturday night to conclude their 2024 season.  It was a season of progress for the Sunbirds that shows plenty of signs of promise for the future. 

It was Senior Night at Ramirez Field, and the evening began with the senior class being honored before the game.  Mariah Contreras, Maria Garcia, Monique Nevarez, Nayelli Flores, Brooke Uceda, and Maria Eir Magnusdottir were all presented with framed jerseys and photos to commemorate their careers as FPU student-athletes.  The seniors were joined on the pitch by their friends and families for introductions and photos.  "I want to extend a huge thank you to our seniors who played their last game," said Associate Head Coach Roberto Hernandez.  "They have been phenomenal both on and off the field, showing our underclassmen what it means to be a Sunbird.  We will miss you!"

The first half between the Sunbirds and Eagles ended scoreless, with both defenses effectively keeping the opposing offenses at bay. Biola's Peyton Nelson started strong, taking an early shot that went wide just seconds in, and later had another attempt saved by the Sunbirds' Monique Nevarez at the 25-minute mark. The Sunbirds' Maria Garcia tested Biola's goalkeeper, Autum Monty, with a shot in the 16th minute that was saved. Both teams faced challenges with fouls and offside calls, with Biola committing three fouls and two offsides, while the Sunbirds had one foul. The half concluded with several corner kicks, but neither team capitalized on these opportunities.

The second half of the match between the Sunbirds and Biola started with both teams making their lineup adjustments. Biola's offensive efforts were marked by multiple attempts on goal, including a shot by Peyton Nelson in the 62nd minute that was saved by the Sunbirds' Monique Nevarez. Biola maintained pressure with several corner kicks, notably in the 67th and 72nd minutes, but was unable to convert these opportunities into goals. The Sunbirds' only shot on target of the half came from Maria Eir Magnusdottir in the 87th minute, which was saved by Biola's goalkeeper, Autum Monty. It would've been a special moment for the winger in her final game, but it wasn't meant to be.  The game concluded with a scoreless draw, reflecting strong defensive performances on both sides.

With the season now complete, there's much to look back on and appreciate from this important season of Sunbirds soccer.  Hernandez has  seen his team make vast improvements all over the field during his first season at the helm, most notably on defense.  Last season's Sunbirds allowed 49 goals - this season's allowed only 17.

"Sad to see our season come to an end but incredibly proud of everyone and the work we've done over the season," added Hernandez.  "Of course we made mistakes along the way, but we learn from them and continue to grow together."

"Now it's time to hit the recruiting trail... we will be ready for next season.  Vamos Sunbirds!"


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