SAN DIEGO, Calif. — In the final match of the regular season, Fresno Pacific fell to (RV) Point Loma 3-0 on Saturday at PLNU Soccer Field. The Sunbirds recorded seven saves, including six in the first half, but struggled to score as the clock ran out.

"Tough way to end the season, but Point Loma is always a tough team to play against," said second-year head coach Roberto Hernandez. "I am incredibly proud of the resilience this team had, we started the season off with a couple of rocky performances but once conference began, we competed in every match! Our four-game winning streak to end the season is thanks to the team's incredible work ethic and execution. Five shutouts on the season is always a great thing. We showed our defensive effort and found our scoring prowess toward the end of the season."

Sunbird goalkeeper Katelyn Gonzalez played a pivotal role in the match by saving multiple shots, including attempts from Point Loma at the top left and at the bottom left. The Sunbirds' defense remained vigilant, thwarting the Sea Lions' late attempts. Fresno Pacific managed to create a scoring opportunity late in the half with a shot by freshman scorer Bailey Roberson, though it went out left. Despite several fouls on both sides, the Sunbirds successfully held off Point Loma's advances. The first half ended in a scoreless draw, with both teams locked at 0-0.

The 'Birds faced challenges in the second half as Point Loma scored a goal early at 51:23. Despite efforts from the Sunbirds to respond, including a saved attempt by Madron at 69:22, Point Loma extended their lead with a penalty kick at 72:25. The Blue and Orange continued to push forward but were unable to convert their chances, and Point Loma sealed the half with another goal at the 85th minute. Gonzalez recorded seven saves over 90 minutes, facing 25 shots and allowing three goals. 

The game concluded with Point Loma securing a 3-0 victory.

"We're excited for it to carry into next season with our returners. We're stoked to see what they will do with more experience under their belts! I want to thank the seniors, for all the hard work they've put in this year, they've definitely made a mark and have made the program better - they will be missed. Vamos Sunbirds!"

Fresno Pacific finished the season 4-8-5 overall and 3-3-4 in PacWest conference play. Although the 'Birds struggled at the start, their four game-winning streak at the end was remarkable, triumphing over Jessup, UC Santa Cruz, CUI, and Biola. The team successfully shut out CUI 1-0, effectively dropping the team from the conference standings and marked the first time the Lady 'Birds have won on senior night since 2020. The Sunbirds had five shutouts this season, including the conference wins over CUI and Biola, narrowly rivaling last year's seven shutouts. With head coach Roberto Hernandez at the helm, FPU women's soccer will continue to make vast improvements and strides.

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