Aug 30, 2013
San Francisco, Calif. - Alexis Venegas scored her first-collegiate goal, but San Jose State University women's soccer team suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss after a last-minute goal by the University of San Francisco Dons at Negoesco Stadium on Friday, August 30.
"In the second half, we came out with more energy and determination than we had to start the game," said Head Coach Jeff Leightman. "When we got that goal, I was sure we would get a second but USF had a lucky bounce."
The Dons (2-0) scored the match's first goal in the 14th minute. Mackenzie Kreiser, coming down the left side, crossed the ball to Amanda Whittle for the 1-0 lead.
Alexis Venegas' first-collegiate goal tied the game, 1-1. At 74:35, Carley McBeath took a long throw-in for the Spartans (0-3) and Venegas knocked in the ball from the near post for the first goal of her collegiate career.
But the Spartans' comeback hopes were dashed by Dons' freshman Lexie Krueger. With 54 seconds left in the match, Krueger's second goal of the season was the game-winner.
San Jose State took six shots, while the Dons got off 18 shots. Lupita Estrada led the Spartans with three shots.
Starting goalkeeper Sarah Peplinski (0-3) made eight saves, and Dons goalkeeper Madalyn Schiffel made two saves.
"When we possess the ball," Leightman said, "we do good things and create quality attacks. But in moments, we make mental mistakes and that costs us goals."
The Spartans travel across the Bay to play the No. 18 California Golden Bears on Sunday, September 1, at 4:30 p.m. Said Leightman, "Sunday will be tough, as Cal is a very talented and athletic team. But we will work hard and bring our best effort."