UCSD estroying the Competition

By Elizabeth Blackwell

Coming off a win from the day before against UC Riverside, UC San Diego’s Women’s Club Soccer competed against UC Los Angeles at home Sunday, October 4. After a very confusing change of arena due to rain, and the initial absence of referees, the match was delayed for an hour until the teams were settled onto Muir field. This miscommunication and turn of events didn’t alter UC San Diego’s focus and determination to continue their winning streak.

From the beginning of the game the Tritons claimed control. Only minutes into the game, center defender Lauren Cooke proved to be quite versatile by scoring an outstanding header goal off a corner kick from Olivia Hadidian, putting UC San Diego up 1-0. Alaina Bujtor followed shortly after, also scoring off a corner kick from Lauren Taiclet. This finished off the half 2-0.

At the beginning of the second half, UC San Diego was caught sleeping when UCLA got control of the ball and was able to connect around the defense, finally slipping one in, making the score 2-1. This feat was enough to shock UC San Diego into battle mode. After receiving a penalty kick from a handball in the penalty box, Laurel Bowling placed the ball just too far central, kicking it right to the goalie for the save. Shortly after, Laurel received the ball and bolted on a fast break to the goal, redeeming herself with a powerhouse shot to boost the score to 3-1. UCLA put up a good fight and presented a strong counter-attack much of the second half, but their spirit was demolished when freshman Elizabeth Blackwell finished off the game with another goal crossed in by Toni Hedding, bringing the final score to 4-1.