Warriors Battle in Nail-Biting Defeat to Cross-Town Leopards

La Verne, CA - On Wednesday evening, the Warriors traveled 5 minutes down the road to their cross-town rival, NCAA DIII opponent, University of La Verne Leopards.  Entering today's match, the Warriors had a chip on their shoulder as last year's matchup against the Leopards ended in a 4-1 defeat.

The Warriors came out on the attack, and thanks to a deep shot from Edith Mendoza that made it's way through the goalie's gloves, the Warriors took an early lead in the 6th minute.  In the 26th minute, Angela Scott-Orihuela gave a beautiful ball to Mercedes Sibrian, in which Sibrian bent the ball just around the goalie's reach and extended the lead for LPU, 2-0.  The Leopards remained on the attack throughout the entire first half, as LPU's defense was put to the test.  Madison Moris was relentless in the net, not allowing a single goal while making 3 saves.  The back line of Samantha Garcia, Bryanna Sabine Yalung, and Edith Mendoza were solid for the Warriors as they carried the 2-0 lead into the half.

LPU was able to maintain the lead throughout the majority of the 2nd half as Peyton Reynoso made 2 crucial saves early in the 2nd half.  The Leopards continued forward with their attack though, totalling 19 shots for the match, with 8 of them being on goal.  That consistent pressure eventually led to their first goal, as they scored off of a set piece in the 80th minute.  They would go on to utilize that momentum and push through 2 more goals in the final 5 minutes of the match, taking the match with a final score of 3-2.

LPU will look to rally back as they host the University of Providence Montana on Friday morning, September 6th, at 8am.