HILO, Hawaii - The Fresno Pacific Women's Soccer team fell to #5 Hawaii-Hilo 3-0 Saturday in the team's final content of their Hawaii road swing. The Vulcans have a been a thorn in recent years for the Lady 'Birds, who have not defeated Hilo since 2017.  Despite the loss, the Sunbirds continue to show resiliency and determination in an extremely-competitive PacWest Conference - which is home to four of the nation's top Division II programs and reigning national champions.

Many changes were made to Roberto Hernandez's side ahead of kickoff, with Nayelli Flores, Celene Corona, and Jenna Obwald all making their first starts of the season for the Lady 'Birds. Obwald, a freshman from Fresno, made both her season and collegiate debuts.  

The first half saw the Vulcans take an early lead with a goal by Teani Arakawa, assisted by Savina Zamborini, in the 8th minute. Both teams played aggressively, resulting in yellow cards for Arakawa and Karyssa Lopez. Sunbirds' goalkeeper Monique Nevarez was active, making saves on multiple shots, including attempts by Alyssa Padron and Jacelyn Cambra. 

The second half began with fouls being exchanged between the teams. Hawaii Hilo took control during a 5 minutes span with goals from Jazlynn Ellis and Shea Christiansen to extend their lead to 3-0. The Sunbirds attempted to respond with a shot by Karyme Hernandez, but it was saved by Vulcan's goalkeeper Phoebe Barnes. The half also saw a series of fouls from both teams, particularly from the Sunbirds, which committed a total of eight fouls, impacting their ability to gain momentum.  The contest would end 3-0 in favor of the hosts, who have already booked their place in the PacWest Postseason Tournament.

Nevarez would end the day with seven saves.  Defensive cornerstone Karyssa Lopez played just 67 minutes - prior to the game she had yet to miss a minute of action in 2024.  Corona and Mackenzie Madron also had on-target shots saved by Barnes.

Things will not get any easier for the Lady 'Birds, who face another ranked PacWest foe - sixth-ranked and reigning national champions Point Loma - at home on Thursday.  Kickoff from Ramirez Field is scheduled for 7:30pm PT and will be streaming on the PacWest Network.  


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