RIVERSIDE, Calif. — California Baptist (5-5-1, 1-0-0) edged Abilene Christian (4-6-0, 0-1-0) in a 2-1 victory at CBU Soccer Stadium on Thursday night. The Lancers scored the decisive goal in the second half, overcoming a strong 10-save performance by Abilene Christian's goalkeeper.
The Wildcats had scored what looked like the go-ahead goal with just over 13 minutes remaining. Instead,
Peyton Hill's goal was negated by replay which officials say showed ACU was offside.
CBU moved on to score with just 28 seconds remaining when Taylor Held clinched the win, assisted by Anja Jestrovic.
The first half between ACU and CBU began with early pressure from the home team. California Baptist's Ava Westlund found the back of the net in the 6th minute, assisted by Mikaela Burchell, giving them a 1-0 lead.
Bella Medrano, the Wildcats' goalkeeper, was active throughout, saving multiple attempts, including key stops at the 24th and 28th minutes. Abilene Christian equalized in the 24th minute when
Abby Smith converted a penalty kick, leveling the score at 1-1. The half concluded with both teams tied, setting up a tense atmosphere for the second half.
Medrano recorded 10 saves in goal, facing 27 shots and allowing two goals. Smith scored one goal and contributed with two shots, including one on target. Hill added pressure with three shots, two of which were on goal for the Wildcats.
NEXT UP
ACU heads to Orem, Utah, to play Utah Valley which was projected to win the WAC in the preseason coaches poll. That game is Saturday, Sept. 27, at 8 p.m. CT.
