FRESNO, CA. - The Fresno Pacific women's soccer team needed overtime to squeeze out a 2-1 win over San Diego Christian Saturday afternoon in GSAC play. Goals by junior Jessica Pereschica and senior Ashley Sherr were enough to squeak by the visiting Hawks while improving FPU's overall record to 9-3, and 4-2 in conference play.
The Sunbirds started strong and got on the board early off Pereschica's goal which came just four minutes into the match. FPU sophomore Liz Baldwin slotted a through pass to Pereschica who then chipped oncoming SDCC goalkeeper Emily Garbez for the game's first goal.
The Hawks showed resilience and found a way back into the match. Sarah Le's shot from outside the eighteen yard box soared up and over FPU goalkeeper Catherine Michaelis and into the net to tie it at one apiece.
With the equalizing goal, San Diego Christian found even more confidence and pressed on to make it a very competitive first half. The period ended with FPU having a slight 6-5 edge in shots.
After a suspect first half, FPU finally began to find their rhythm of play and were much more creative on the attack in the second half of play. The Sunbirds also increased their defensive effort and dominated the half statistically while firing off 13 shots, and limiting SDCC to 2.
With a disallowed FPU goal and a plethora of missed chances, lady luck proved evasive for the Sunbirds as the half ended without either team scoring, and the game headed to overtime.
With the pressure on and time running out, FPU would find a way,
That's when the Sunbird's leading goal-scorer Ashley Sherr took initiative and converted the game winning goal in the 97th minute to give Fresno Pacific the win and all three points.
The Sunbirds ended the game with a 20-7 shot advantage, and led 8-2 in corner kicks.
Next up, Fresno Pacific will travel to La Mirada, CA. to take on Biola University Tuesday, October 20th. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30pm.