LOS ANGELES, Calif. - An early goal in Los Angeles created a steep challenge for the Wildcats in the first game of their final conference road trip. The Golden Eagles found the back of the net in the 9th minute, and despite the admirable offensive efforts from the 'Cats, the game ended in favor of the home side.

There was no lack of offense for the 'Cats as they outshot their opponents 16 to 13 shots; the struggle was keeping them below the bar to give their shots a chance of converting.

Natalie Mendoza was a leader on the field for Chico State on Friday, recording six shots with three hitting the frame. Teammate Summer Baron added four shots of her own against the Golden Eagles.

In the 80th minute, Emma Hofmann kept the deficit to two with a stretching save as a Golden Eagles shot began to dip over her head, pushing the ball just over the crossbar. Hofmann made three saves in the road match.

Following the loss, Chico State falls into a tie for 7th in the CCAA standings with Cal State East Bay with four games remaining in the regular conference season. 

The Wildcats will conclude their road schedule with an early matchup against the Toros on Sunday at 11:30 a.m. as they continue their chase for a postseason tournament spot in the CCAA.