COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado - Air Force (8-6-3) extended their winning streak to four games with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Fresno State (6-6-5) on Sunday afternoon in Mountain West Conference action. The match saw both teams create multiple scoring opportunities before Kendall Rippley's 49th-minute goal proved to be the difference maker.
Klara Chapeyrout opened the scoring for Fresno State in the 19th minute, converting after good build-up play. Air Force responded through Annika Jost in the 31st minute, leveling the match with a well-placed finish. The decisive moment came early in the second half when Kendall Rippley found the back of the net in the 49th minute to give the Falcons their eventual winning margin.
The first half was marked by intense midfield battles, with both teams generating quality chances. Fresno State's Anaya Shelton tested the Air Force defense with a shot off the woodwork in the 4th minute, while Alexis Campbell forced a save with a low drive in the 6th minute. Air Force's defensive unit, anchored by Lauren Steinlage, weathered the early pressure before finding their rhythm. The match's intensity was evident when Raine Komata received a yellow card in the 17th minute for an unsporting challenge.
The second half saw Air Force assert more control, particularly after Rippley's go-ahead goal. Fresno State goalkeeper Shivani Battaglia made several crucial saves to keep her team in the match, including important stops against Kendall Rippley in the 81st minute and Zahra Friess in the 76th minute. The match's complexity increased when Air Force's Raine Komata received a straight red card in the 82nd minute, forcing the Falcons to defend their lead with ten players for the final minutes.
Statistically, the match was evenly contested with both teams recording 12 shot attempts. Air Force held the advantage in shots on target (10-4), while corner kicks were even at 5-5. The physical nature of the game was reflected in the cards shown, with both teams receiving yellows before Komata's late dismissal.
Individual performances shaped the outcome significantly. Fresno State's Ciara Wilson showed excellent vision in midfield, creating several opportunities and testing Air Force's goalkeeper with a low drive in the 87th minute. Air Force's Kendall Rippley proved to be the difference-maker, not only scoring the winning goal but consistently threatening with three shots on target throughout the match. Goalkeeper Trishelle Lopez made three crucial saves for Air Force to preserve the victory.
The tactical battle evolved throughout the match, with Air Force's pressing game forcing Fresno State into difficult situations in their own half. The Bulldogs attempted to exploit the flanks through Katie Morris and Anaya Shelton, but Air Force's defensive organization, particularly after going ahead, proved difficult to break down. The red card to Komata forced Air Force into a more defensive stance for the final minutes, which they managed effectively.
This victory continues Air Force's impressive run of form, having won their last four matches including recent victories over Nevada and San Jose State. For Fresno State, the loss ends their two-game winning streak and highlights areas for improvement in their attacking efficiency despite creating numerous chances.
Both teams now look ahead to crucial conference matchups. Air Force will travel to face Colorado College on October 30, while Fresno State returns home to host San Jose State on the same evening. The result keeps Air Force's momentum building as they push for a strong finish to their conference campaign.