COSTA MESA, CA- The Soka Lions opened their 2022 campaign at Vanguard University, where the two sides played to a 1-1 draw. This afternoon's tie stands as the Soka women's soccer program's best result against Vanguard, as the two teams have faced ten times since their inaugural season in 2009, with an overall record of 0-9-1.

Vanguard University was the first to get on the scoreboard in the 56th minute of play after Payton Siurek intercepted a goal kick that was played short by Soka.

The Soka Lions answered back four minutes later after Kamry Aragon drew a foul inside the penalty box. Soka's Mallorie Barteua stepped up to the spot and converted her chance, scoring her first career goal and netting the equalizer at the 59:55 minute-mark.

Soka and Vanguard both created scoring opportunities, but neither could find the go-ahead goal.

"I am very pleased with the effort and energy today," said Head Coach Wendy Espejel. "Our returners have put in work over the summer and the first-year class has already made an impact on the field. We saw many good things in today's game and will continue solidifying our style heading into conference." 
 
The Lions will return home to host San Diego Christian College on Wednesday, Aug. 24. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m.



 
Game Notes: Vanguard outshot Soka 11-3 and put five of their shots on frame while the Soka Lions' three shots were all on goal… Soka's Mackenzie Stenstrom made four saves on the day… a yellow card was shown to Soka's Sasha Brafman, and two yellows were shown to Soka's Ashley Aranda, while Vanguard's Jillian Juarez and Celeste Keirnan were also shown yellow cards.