Match Summary: Cal Poly vs. UC Irvine
In an exciting clash, Cal Poly edged out UC Irvine with a thrilling 2-1 victory, showcasing their determination and teamwork.
Scoring Breakdown
The first half witnessed a surprising turn of events beginning with an own goal by a UC Irvine defender in the 28th minute. Senior defender Brennan Cole initiated the play with a free kick that inadvertently found its way into the net following a header from an Anteater player, giving Cal Poly an early 1-0 advantage.
However, momentum shifted less than ten minutes later when UC Irvine was awarded a penalty kick. Mia Colombini stepped up and successfully converted the penalty in the 37th minute, leveling the score at 1-1.
Cal Poly quickly regrouped and regained momentum. Just three minutes after the Anteaters’ equalizer, redshirt freshman forward Ashley Brewer made a pivotal play by passing the ball to graduate student Dougherty. With a skillful dribble, Dougherty launched a shot from inside the penalty box, restoring Cal Poly’s lead at 2-1. This marked Dougherty’s fifth goal of the season, tying her with teammates Jessie Halladay and Annika Smith for the Big West points lead at 17. Additionally, Brewer and Minnite recorded their first points of the season through assists during this play.
Defensive Standouts
Cal Poly maintained their 2-1 lead into halftime and continued to defend effectively in the second half. In the 57th minute, UC Irvine threatened to score following a corner kick, but Cal Poly defenders Siena Urzua and Ava Mirelez came through with a vital clearance off the goal line.
Goalkeeper Shannon Porubski contributed to the team’s success with two saves, while players Cole, Minnite, Urzua, and freshman Sam Walker remained on the field for the entirety of the match, illustrating their endurance and commitment.
Coach’s Reflections
Head Coach Silva expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “We talked about going in that Sunday games are when your culture as a program really gets tested; your sisterhood gets tested, your friendship gets tested and we passed the test. I think our girls were fantastic.”
Upcoming Matches
Looking ahead, Cal Poly will be hosting their final two matches of the regular season at home. The Mustangs are set to face UC Riverside on Thursday at 7 p.m., followed by a matchup against CSUN on Sunday, October 26, at noon.
