Aug. 19, 2016
San Jose, Calif. --- The San Jose State women's soccer team and UC Riverside grinded through a scoreless tie in the regular season opener for both teams on Friday afternoon.
San Jose State was by far the more aggressive team, with 16 shots to UC Riverside's four. However, Highlanders keeper Alanna Guzman never let one of the nine shots on goal go by her.
"We showed a lot of grit today, even in the overtime," said Spartans' head coach Lauren Hanson. "A lot of players contributed today and it was a great team effort. I would like to say that I love how we started with a shutout. Our back line was solid."
The Spartans did not allow a Highlanders shot throughout the first 45 minutes. Meanwhile, San Jose State had a bevy of opportunities to put one in the back of the net.
Darriell Franklin fired a shot from the front left side of the box in the 21st minute, but a diving Guzman was there for the save. Then in the 51st minute, Claire Berkley took a pass inside off of a set piece and headed the ball into the net. The celebrations ceased when offside was called and the goal was wiped out.
One final chance for a goal came with just 10 seconds remaining in double-overtime. Dorthe Hoppius blocked a clear-out attempt near the top of the UC Riverside box, which fell at the feet of Sabrina Miller, who drilled a shot on goal. But Guzman jumped up to the far corner and hauled it in for her ninth save.
"From the attacking side of things we created so many opportunities," Hanson said. "We had three breakaway opportunities and if you finish those, it's a three-nothing game."
Danielle Lopez and Christina Tucker had UCR's two shots on goal in the match.
Maricruz Chapa, Yvette Cuellar, Samantha Orodpour, Hoppius and Franklin all put a shot on goal.
The Spartans are back in action at the SJSU Football Practice Field on Sunday against Sacramento State. The match will begin at 12:00 p.m (PT), and will be broadcast live on the Mountain West Network.