Sept. 30, 2016
San Jose, Calif. --- The San Jose State women's soccer team took a 1-0 lead into the second half, but three straight New Mexico goals handed the Spartans a 3-1 loss in Mountain West play.
The loss is San Jose State's first of the year at home and ends a five-match unbeaten streak.
"It was the tale of two halves today," said Spartans' head coach Lauren Hanson. "They were able to score a goal that shifted the momentum their way, and they were able to finish their opportunities against us."
Alexis Venegas gave SJSU (5-3-3, 2-1-0 MW) a 1-0 lead in the 13th minute with her third goal of the season. Carley McBeath's long throw in from the left side skipped off the head of Dorthe Hoppius and to the foot of Venegas in front of the goal.
The New Mexico (5-4-2, 1-2-0 MW) surge was powered by top goal scorers Maddie Irwin and Claire Lynch. Lynch scored an equalizer in the 54th minute when she cleaned up on a rebound in front of the goal. Irwin netted the game winner in the 77th minute with a similar play where the ball came lose in front of the goal.
Lynch struck again in the 85th minute to give the Lobos a 3-1 lead.
San Jose State outshot New Mexico 9-7 for the match, but two Lobos keepers combined to make four saves. Freshman keeper Ana Calero, in her second start of 2016, made one save and dropped to 2-1-0 on the year.
San Jose State is back in action on Sunday for a noon start against San Diego State at the Football Practice Field.
Fans are encouraged to show up by 11:00 a.m. for the pregame tailgate next to the Koret Athletic Performance Center. There will be a jumpy house, food truck, corn hole, and some prize-winning opportunities. All kids ages 5-12 are invited to stick around after the match for a free clinic by the Spartan players.