LA VERNE, CA – The University of La Verne women's soccer team played one of its best games of the season and defeated the University of Redlands Bulldogs 2-1 to keep their postseason chances alive.
The Leopards moved to 5-6 overall, 2-5-2 in conference play, and snapped a two-game skid. La Verne leaped over Redlands in the standings to move into sixth place and just two points out of the final SCIAC Postseason spot with four games to play.
Junior forward,
Kristen Smick broke a 0-0 deadlock in the 54th minute to give the Leopards the lead. Kyle Allen crossed the ball into the box and it was deflected off a Bulldog defender to the feet of Smick. The Santiago Canyon transfer took one touch to beat the defender then fired a right-footed shot to the left side of the goal.
Khalea Turingan followed up seven minutes later with what proved to be the difference maker. The freshman lined up for a free kick a yard outside the top of the box, called her own number, and unleashed a hard shot past the outstretched arms of the diving Redlands keeper.
La Verne set the tone with phenomenal defensive play throughout the game and made the Bulldog forwards uncomfortable. The Leopards' defense did an excellent job keeping the Bulldogs at bay in the second half, allowing just one shot. Goalie
Abigail Macedo finished with three saves.
The Bulldogs responded in the 69th minute with a goal from senior forward Sami Salinas. The game got physical in the final minutes as both teams battled for possession. The Leopards remained poised, limited Redlands' chances, and held on for the win.
Next Game
The Leopards continue conference play on Saturday, October 19, in an away game at Pomona-Pitzer at 11:30 a.m.
