STOCKTON, CALIFORNIA — Fresno Pacific extended its winning streak to two matches with a 3-1 victory over UC Santa Cruz on Wednesday. The Sunbirds controlled the second half after a tightly contested opening 45 minutes, capitalizing on their home-field advantage to secure the regional victory.
Mackenzie Madron opened the scoring in the 17th minute for Fresno Pacific, assisted by Takoah Castillo and Sophie Rosales. Gizelle Aguirre doubled the lead at the 19-minute mark, giving the hosts a commanding 2-0 advantage before halftime. The early offensive burst proved decisive in determining the match's trajectory.
UC Santa Cruz offered little resistance in the opening period but showed more urgency after the break. The Banana Slugs' defensive adjustments limited Fresno Pacific's opportunities early in the second half, though the hosts maintained control of possession.
Bailey Roberson extended Fresno Pacific's advantage to 3-0 in the 48th minute, assisted by Karyssa Lopez, effectively putting the match beyond reach. The goal came just three minutes into the second half and reflected the Sunbirds' superior execution in transition play.
Camille Anneet scored UC Santa Cruz's lone goal in the 89th minute, assisted by Sydney Boyd, providing a consolation marker in the final moments. The late tally prevented a shutout but did nothing to alter the outcome.
Fresno Pacific's defense proved stingy throughout, recording four saves compared to UC Santa Cruz's two. The Sunbirds limited their opponents