By Hayden Carter
In a Western Athletic Conference matchup, the California State University, Bakersfield women’s soccer team was shutout 2-0 by Grand Canyon University on Thursday, Oct. 30 at the main soccer field.
After a scoreless first half, the ‘Lopes (7-9-1, 6-3 WAC) scored twice in a ten minute span to defeat the ‘Runners (4-14-1, 3-6 WAC) 2-0.
“I think in the first half, we had a good response after the first ten minutes,” said assistant coach Christian Johnson. “I think in the second half, after that first goal, I don’t think we responded well.”
CSUB struggled to create any type of offensive rhythm throughout the match, and two breakaways ultimately won the game for GCU.
“The speed of play and our possession has got to be much better,” said Johnson.
“Tonight’s a little bit of a setback, but we knew this was going to be a tough game. Grand Canyon’s a dangerous, young team and it shows us that the coaches and players need to raise the bar.”
The first goal for GCU came from freshman forward Milla Benedetti in the 61st minute and the second came in the 69th Pape.
“We just need to work on our mentality,” said redshirt-junior Tori Ornela. “The big part is having mental focus for a full 90 minutes.”
On Saturday, the four seniors were honored by the program and by the university for their commitment and their hard work over the last four years.
“[The seniors] are great girls and great soccer players,” said freshman midfielder Maja Green. “It’s going to be very different next year when they’re not here. They mean so much to this team on and off the pitch.”
