Athenas Soccer Battles Regals To A Tie

On Saturday night the Athenas (7-2-2, 5-0-2 SCIAC) hosted the Cal Lutheran Regals (8-2-2, 4-2-1) for their final match up of the regular season. The Athenas were in control of the ball early in the game as they combined with each other and created many good opportunities. CMS' energetic pressure and threatening offense kept the Regals on their heels. Unfortunately, a quick break for the Regals was converted to a goal which put them ahead 1-0 in the 23rd minute. In the second half, the Athenas continued creating opportunities and were successful in denying multiple Regal counters. Late in the game, Laura Hagen (JR, Bellevue, WA) crossed the ball to fellow striker Julia Nishioka (SO, Honolulu, HI [pictured]) running into the penalty box.  Nishioka cradled the bounce of the driven pass with her first touch and quickly slotted the ball past the keeper to tie it up at one a piece with eight minutes left in the game. Two overtime periods were played, and the match ended in a draw despite many near opportunities for the Athenas. CMS outshot Cal Lu 18 to 12. Camila Friedman-Gerlicz (SR, Santa Fe, NM) had four saves.

CMS will face the Leopards at La Verne on Wednesday afternoon.  Game time is at 4:00.