MERCED, Calif. — Chico State defeated UC Merced 3-2 on Sunday in a competitive California Collegiate Athletic Association matchup, extending the Wildcats' winning streak to four consecutive games. The road victory showcased Chico State's resilience and offensive prowess against a determined Merced squad that mounted a second-half comeback before ultimately falling short.
Hannah Pieri opened the scoring for Chico State in the 1st minute, giving the Wildcats an early advantage. Makayla Cruz-Martinez extended the lead with a goal in the 7th minute, putting Chico State ahead 2-0. UC Merced responded through Trinidad Quiroz in the 9th minute, cutting the deficit in half before halftime. The Bobcats equalized through Jackie Tamayo in the 32nd minute, leveling the match at 2-2. Laila Hadid's 77th-minute goal proved decisive, securing the 3-2 victory for the visiting Wildcats.
The first half belonged primarily to Chico State, which controlled possession and created early scoring opportunities. The Wildcats' aggressive approach paid immediate dividends with Pieri's opening-minute strike, followed by Cruz-Martinez's quick second goal just six minutes later. Chico State's early dominance forced UC Merced into a reactive posture, though the Bobcats showed composure in responding through Quir