FRESNO, Calif. - The Fresno Pacific women's soccer team battled against Jessup University on Tuesday evening in a 1-1 non-conference draw, netting a first half equalizer to level the score following the visitors' opener.  Despite shutting out the Warriors in the second half and out shooting them 20-9, the Sunbirds could not find the game winner they so certainly deserved.

"Lots of positives to take from this game, we created plenty of opportunities to earn the full 3 points but unfortunately didn't find the back of the net enough times," said head coach Roberto Hernandez. "Proud of the team for the fight and the attacking elements showcased. We are ready to get back into conference play against Menlo."

The first half began with Fresno Pacific establishing an early presence, but Jessup's defense held firm. Jessup's first attack hit the woodwork in the opening minutes, keeping the 'Birds vigilant. Despite a series of fouls and attempts from both sides, the Warriors broke through with a goal in the 16th minute, giving the visitors a lead. FPU responded decisively, leveling the match in the 32nd minute when freshman Bailey Roberson rushed ahead to score, assisted by Gizelle Aguirre. Roberson took a perfectly-threaded through ball one-on-one with the keeper and instinctively slotted in under the onrushing Jessup keeper. The clinical finish earned Roberson her first goal as a Sunbird. The Stockton native made her impact ever-present throughout the contest, tallying five shots (four on target) and contributed to the team's relentless efforts to score in the second half. This marks the second time a freshman has stepped up and opened the scoresheet for the 'Birds this season.

The second half began with the Sunbirds pushing forward, generating several scoring opportunities. Rosie Farina, Roberson, and Alexis Butz each had shots early on, but were unable to convert. Ayana Kirisimasi, who returned as the starting goalkeeper for FPU, kept the momentum on Fresno Pacific's side with three crucial saves against the Warriors. Kirisimasi's defensive prowess has placed her second in the conference in saves per game (5.71).

With the game still knotted at one goal apiece, the Blue and Orange continued to apply pressure and earned multiple corner kicks. Abby Cano Ledezma and Mackenzie Madron each had promising efforts off the set pieces that were thwarted by Jessup's defense. Despite a penalty kick opportunity, Karyme Hernandez's attempt at the 84th minute was saved, keeping the tension high for both teams. As the half drew to a close, Roberson had another shot to the right corner and Karyssa Lopez attempted to score, but both were stopped at the last second. The match ended with both teams unable to break the deadlock, concluding with a score of 1-1.

The Sunbirds are officially 0-7-3 overall with a conference record of 0-2-2.

NEXT UP: The 'Birds head to Menlo College on Saturday for an early 11am match.

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