LA VERNE, CA — Natalie Kooba scored a highlight-reel goal,
Katy Blue had a career day in goal, and the University of La Verne women's soccer team won 1-0 against Azusa Pacific on Wednesday night.
With under three minutes in the half,
Katherine Riordan lined up for a free kick at the midway line by the near sideline. Reigning Leopard of the Week
Jessica Figueroa gathered the ball and flicked it to Kooba. The junior sent a perfect long shot from 25 yards out to the top corner of the goal, past the reach of the leaping keeper. Kooba has scored two goals this season.
Blue was outstanding in front of the goal. The sophomore, making her first start of the year, grabbed 11 saves, one short of her career high. Blue fended off eight second-half shots alone.
The Leopards changed out their typical lineup to give the Cougars a different look from their first meeting, which APU won 2-0. The Leopards started aggressively with great touches to create opportunities, but the Cougars' defense held them off.
The Cougars set up chances set up throughout the first half. APU finished with 11 shots on goal.
The second half was a hard, physical battle from both teams. The Cougars rallied off 18 more shots in the period.
With every aggressive Cougar play, the Leopards responded with disciplined defense.
The Leopards' bench kept the energy high, reflecting the intense play on the field.
The Leopards move to 3-7-1 overall and will be on the road next, facing off against Caltech on Saturday, October 10 at 11 a.m.
