ALISO VIEJO, CA- The Soka University Lions dropped their match against the Royals of Hope International University 4-1 on Thursday evening at the Lion's Den Soccer Stadium.

The game showcased five total goals, all spanning within six minutes. Hope scored their first two goals during the 27th minute of the game. Soka's Ashley Fujimori finished her chance in the 28th minute after Cienna Irwin served Samantha Barrera a driven set-piece into the box. Barrera headed the ball down to Fujimori, who slotted her shot into the goal to put the Lions on the scoreboard.

Hope tallied two more goals in the 29th and 31st minutes of play, bringing the final score to 4-1.

"We always know Hope is a strong opponent, and playing them prepares us for conference," said Head Coach Wendy Espejel. "Today, we saw good moments in the second half, but also saw what we need to continue building on."

Up next, the Lions travel to The Master's College on Saturday, August 26, 2023. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m.


 
NOTES: The Lions are now 1-1 overall… the Royals outshot Soka 25-15… The Lions' Mackinzie Stenstrom made 11 saves on the day… Hope University's Ashlyn Edwards was ejected from the match for receiving two yellow cards.