On Saturday, February 24th, the UCSD women’s club soccer team played their first spring league game against Point Loma Nazarene University at Warren Field. Parents and fans flocked the sidelines as UCSD got ready for their first competitive match-up of the season. During the first half, it took some time for the Tritons to shake off the rust but eventually they got into the groove of things, passing around the midfield well and creating many chances up top. About 15 minutes into the half, a long ball from the right side found the head of freshman midfielder Keiko Coleman, who flicked the ball into the center for fellow freshman Allison Long to head into the goal. Not long after, junior forward Makenna Gandara cut into the center, dribbling her way past several Point Loma players before sliding a ball through Point Loma’s defensive line to freshman Natalie Maloney. Nat calmly connected the ball, cut to fake out the defender, and then shot the ball into the bottom right corner. The first half ended 2-0 for the Triton home side, who were somewhat relieved and in high spirits.

In the second half, UCSD continued to dominate the game, finding channels down the line to cross and pressure Point Loma’s back line. Not soon after the half started, UCSD really began to pound their opposition, starting what would be an onslaught of goals: first, a Triton corner led to sophomore McKenzie Kirn smashing the ball into the back of the net. Then, forward Miriam Bell crossed a high ball for junior Elizabeth Yang to head into the goal. Finally, freshman Megan Didimizo hit a long arching ball from behind the half for sophomore Cynthia Ruiz to run onto – juking the keeper, Cynthia tapped the ball into the net for the home side’s 5th goal of the afternoon. The game ended 5-0 for UCSD and the Tritons left the field content and optimistic after a very well-deserved victory. UCSD plays Grand Canyon University tomorrow, February 25th, at Warren Field.