Biola women’s soccer traveled north to Seattle, Washington to take on Seattle Pacific University on Thursday at 4 p.m. Both sides showed resilient defense but SPU took the game 1-0 with a penalty kick.
Junior goalkeeper Briana Ruelas guided Biola’s defense early on with several saves. Directly after a Ruelas save, the Eagles conceded a foul in the box at the 27th minute. SPU’s Claire Neder finished the PK, making the score 1-0. Ten minutes later, Biola concocted a response and sophomore midfielder Katelyn Penner put a shot on frame to no avail. Senior defender Colie Martin finished out the half with a shot, forcing SPU to make a save.
The Eagles changed goalkeepers at the half, substituting in senior goalkeeper Christina Rodriguez. Five minutes into the half, Rodriguez was faced with an onslaught as SPU put up three shots in a row. Biola regained possession of the ball and traipsed downfield for a shot from senior forward Sarah Yang. However, SPU fought back quickly forcing Rodriguez to make two saves in the 61st and 63rd minutes. The Eagles pushed offensively toward the end of the game, creating two corner kick opportunities, but it was not enough as SPU walked away with the 1-0 win.
The Eagles will fly to Portland, Oregon to take on Concordia Portland University Saturday at 1 p.m.
