ALISO VIEJO, Calif. – The Soka Lions (1-0-0) opened their season defeating the Bushnell Beacons 2-0 on Saturday evening at the Lions' Den Soccer Stadium.

The first half of the game ended with a 0-0 scoreline. The Lions held off three shots from the Beacons while taking six to counter. Soka managed to break through Bushnell's defense five minutes into the second half netting a goal in the 50th minute. The goal came from a pass by Taylor Hampton, finding Micaela Villalobos, and then with the finish from Jeanna Ceja ending the stalemate.

The Lions continued to press, eventually finding a hole in the Beacon defense to give Soka a 2-0 lead. Samantha Barrera maneuvered past two defenders in the box to find Micaela Villalobos in the 62nd minute.

"The team performed fantastic today, their determination to compete was evident," said Head Coach Wendy Espejel.  "I applaud their ability to adapt to the game and make the adjustments needed to secure the results. It was a great start to the season, and we will continue to work together to achieve a spot in the playoffs this year."
 
Up next, the Lions face Life Pacific University at home on Wednesday, August 21. Kickoff is set for 5:30 p.m.