SAN JOSE, Calif. - San Jose State women's soccer saw a massive improvement in play on both ends of the pitch as they picked up a huge win over the Boise State Broncos in a 1-0 final from the Spartan Soccer Complex on Friday evening. The shutout victory broke a three-match losing skid for the Spartans as they improved to 1-6-1 on the year.
Like we have seen so many times in years prior, it was the Spartans' suffocating defense that helped led the way to victory. In a return to form that helped them capture the 2018 Mountain West Championship crown, the defensive back line and goalkeeper Zoe Aguirre made play after play to limit the potent Bronco scoring attack.
Boise State was able to get off 10 shots, most coming in the second half, with four on-frame, but Aguirre was ready for each chance. Her best stand of the night came in the 52nd minute as she went toe to toe with Boise State's Dorian Goodwin for back-to-back saves. The first save came on a diving attempt to the corner in which the sophomore was able to knock the ball away. The Broncos collected the rebound and Goodwin reset for another chance and tried to go right after Aguirre in the middle of the net. Aguirre, an Eastern Kentucky transfer, stood firm and made the grab to preserve the 1-0 advantage. She finished the night with four saves and posted her first clean sheet as a Spartan.
The offensive attack also improved for the Spartans as they put five of their 11 shots on goal. Sophomore Sabrina Weinman was responsible for two of those attempts, including the difference-maker in the 14th minute. After a quick change of possession, Boise State's keeper attempted to clear the ball away, but her kick ended up striking Weinman perfectly for a rebound shot that easily rolled into the back of the net. The goal was Weinman's first of the season.
On the board courtesy of @sabrina_weinman!!#SpartanUp pic.twitter.com/d1KQIAQbtu
— SJSU Women's Soccer (@sjsusoccer) April 3, 2021
Boise State, who entered the match second in the West Division standings, had a couple opportunities late in the contest to tie the match up. In the 85th minute, the Broncos had back-to-back corner kick chances, but the Spartans were ready and turned away both without allowing a shot.
The Spartans will look to carry their momentum into Sunday's match against Nevada in what will be their final home match of the abbreviated season. Seniors Lauola Amanoni and Bella Bowers will be honored for senior day in a pregame ceremony. Fans can watch the ceremony and ensuing match live on the Mountain West Network.