Sept. 21, 2014
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Lupita Estrada headed the game-winning goal in the 85th minute as the San Jose State women's soccer team (3-3-2) defeated the Portland State Vikings, 1-0 in its final nonconference match Sunday evening at Hilsboro Stadium.
The Spartans were set up for a free kick in the 83rd minute following a Portland State (3-3-2) foul. Fellow senior Kareli Rodriguez placed a smooth through ball to Estrada, as she volleyed home the winner near the left corner of the goal from 12 yards out. The goal marked the first for the forward since scoring the game-winner in a 1-0 double overtime victory over UNLV on October 4, 2013.
"Lupita came up with a big time goal during an important part of the game," said head coach Lauren Hanson. "I thought our team played fantastic soccer, especially in the first half. Playing on the road today and pulling out the victory was a great end result for us as we head into conference play."
For the first time in two matches San Jose State outshot their opponent, outshooting the Vikings 11-10 in the match.
Junior goalkeeper Zoe Makrigiannis continued her stellar play in goal, making four saves to keep Portland State off the board while earning her third shutout in the Spartans past four matches.
"Zoe has been a great leader for us, the back line has been great for us," said Hanson. "The defense has been working together, doing a better job at organizing and preventing things from happening."
San Jose State will open up Mountain West competition with a pair of home matches beginning on Friday, September 26, as the Spartans will host pre-season favorite San Diego State at 2:00 p.m. and Sunday, September 28 against New Mexico at 12:00 p.m. at Spartan Soccer Field.
Spartan fans don't forget to follow the team on Twitter (@sjsusoccer) and Instagram (@sjsuwomenssoccer) and remember to like the Spartans on Facebook.
#SpartanUp