ALISO VIEJO, CA- The Lions defeated the Life Pacific Warriors 2-0 Thursday evening at the Lions' Den Soccer Stadium, securing their first win of the 2023 season.

The two sides remained scoreless throughout the first half of the play. It wasn't until the 47th minute when Soka's Ashley Fujimori netted her first career goal and her first collegiate game-winning goal for the Lions. Fujimori's goal stemmed from a pass by Kamry Aragon. Aragon connected with Kyra Dibenedetto, who crossed her service to Fujimori. Fujimori finished her chance into the corner of the goal, giving the Lions the lead early into the second half.

Soka's Alex Bershtein added an insurance goal in the 70th minute after receiving a well-distributed pass from Taylor Hampton. Bershstein fired her shot high into the upper right corner, giving the Lions the 2-0 lead.

"I am very pleased with the work this team has put in all week," said Head Coach Wendy Espejel. "They implemented the game plan perfectly and showed great support towards one another. I loved to see goals from both a first year and a fourth year! The team really came in having worked hard over the summer, and that reflected in tonight's match, particularly keeping our work ethic late in the game."

Next, the Lions will remain at home to host Hope International University on Thursday, August 24, 2023. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:30 pm.
 


NOTES: The Lions outshot the Warriors 8-2… Soka's Mackenzie Stenstrom made one save on the day… A yellow card was shown to Life Pacific's Bryanna Sabine Yalung.