In their third game of the 2022 Aztec Cup, the UCSD Women’s Club Soccer team faced off against Loyola Marymount University to earn a 2-0 shutout. The Tritons led with a strong start in the first half as their possession-oriented style of play found success against the Lions. The team’s ability to play with a natural composure and intensity set the tone for the rest of the game.

After building plays and patiently possessing the ball, the Tritons were able to work their way forward to find sophomore Adelka Hancova in front of goal for a simple slot in the back of the net. Hancova scored her second goal of the tournament and the team’s second of the season with an assist from freshman Suhana Singh, who previously put UCSD on the board in their weekend opener against ASU on Saturday.

With one goal under their belt, the Tritons were unsatisfied and hungry for more. They carried the same aggression, urgency, and collectiveness well into the second half and continued to dominate. Though positioned as an outside back, junior Marli Bannai proved to be a persistent threat to LMU’s right side wingers with her swift touches bringing the ball forward far into their half. One play had Bannai dribbling from half field past several LMU players to find herself at the top of the box where her shot sent the ball rocketing into the upper left corner of the goal. Both of UCSD’s remarkable goals were made possible by the team’s combined presence on all thirds of the field. The shutout was reflective of the resilience shown by the Triton defensive back line and goalkeepers. Their offensive maneuvers to bring the outside backs into the attack and the center defenders’ confidence to push the ball forward created multiple dangerous plays for the opposing team. The middle third of the field was well controlled by UC San Diego, putting LMU into difficult situations throughout the entirety of the match. The team’s attacking line also worked hard to maximize space and provide as much width as possible on a narrow field. Together, the UCSD women were able to exhaust and break down LMU’s defensive efforts. From whistle to whistle, each player fought hard to win their tackles, connect their passes, and close out the long weekend with a well-earned, well-deserved 2-0 victory.