FRESNO, Calif. – Fresno Pacific women's soccer continued to build momentum Wednesday, taking control early and never looking back in a 3-1 triumph over UC Santa Cruz. FPU showcased its depth and teamwork as three different Sunbirds tallied goals, lifting the team to its second victory of the season.

The Banana Slugs maintained possession at the start, keeping control of the ball from FPU in the first two minutes. Gizelle Aguirre got things rolling for the Sunbirds with a close shot that sailed to the left of the goal, followed by a daring cross attempt by Mackenzie Madron that put more pressure on the Banana Slugs' defense. When a close-range shot in the box came at goalkeeper Ayana Kirisimasi, she effectively deflected the ball and forced a corner kick for UCSC.

Using the momentum from a blocked attempt, the Sunbirds moved up the field with careful passes, giving Mackenzie Madron the opportunity to score. Madron's first goal of the season was a perfect shot to the right corner of the net, thanks to fellow teammates Takoah Castillo and Sophie Rosales.

Minutes later, Aguirre responded next for the Sunbirds, taking no time to add another point to the board, bringing FPU to a 2-0 advantage. Aguirre was recently the Sunbird of the Week after scoring two back-to-back goals versus the Warriors and has been a crucial piece to FPU's offense. Subbing into the game, Bailey Roberson took a long pass from Jaylene Cambara and nearly scored another goal for FPU, but UCSC's goalkeeper dove and captured the ball at the last second. The Banana Slugs had some valiant attempts to score, but the half concluded with the Sunbirds ahead - a welcome repeat to last week's game against Jessup.

Taking no time after halftime, Roberson captured the third goal of the game, beating the defenders and taking a one-on-one shot against the goalkeeper. The sharp shot using her right foot sealed the 3-0 advantage at the 48^th minute. Consistent ball control from Roberson and Krysta Casas kept the ball in the 'Birds possession, but the Banana Slugs were persistent in their defense, hoping to stop another Sunbird goal. Stepping into the goal, Gonzalez switched out with Kirisimasi and stopped a couple of shots from the Banana Slugs.

UCSC had a deep shot that bounced off the crossbar, but FPU kept the visiting team scoreless into the final stretch. However, a goal by UCSC in the final minute, ended the game 3-1.

The Sunbirds are now 2-7-5 overall and 1-2-4 in conference play.

NEXT UP: Women's soccer celebrates their seniors on Saturday, November 1 at 4:30 pm in the conference match-up against Concordia University Irvine. The ceremony will be held after the game for the Lady 'Birds before the men's game kicks off at 7:30.

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