CHICO, Calif. - The air was brisk and cold for the Chico State women's soccer team Friday night, coming off a dominant 4-0 victory last week against the Toros—battling to claim a spot in the CCAA postseason tournament in November. Hannah Pieri secured the three points for the Wildcats with a perfectly timed run to find the ball landing perfectly on her left foot from the opening goal scorer, Summer Baron.
The Wildcats came to compete Friday, maintaining most of the possession throughout the match and not giving the Gators any time to breathe.
It was a highly commendable effort from the Gators and their keeper, who made 12 saves against the Wildcats, who had no trouble hitting the frame of the goal.
Summer Baron has seen growing success in the last half of the season, scoring two in her previous two games and assisting the game-winning goal against the Gators. She has been a persistent issue for defenses throughout the CCAA this season, tracking down the ball with ferocity in the attacking third. Her goal was earned through persistence in front of the net, blasting the ball over the line, and four Gators stood blocking the sliver of the net left in sight.
Six different Wildcats had two shots, with Avery Pieri being the leading striker with three of her own.
Chico State now improves to 10-5-1 overall and 5-3-1 in conference play, jumping into a tie for third in the standings with Cal Poly Humboldt at 16 points. With two games remaining in the season, every point will be crucial to earn if the Wildcats want a spot in the postseason tournament.
Two more wins with losses from Cal State LA and San Bernardino could see a first-round match hosted by the Wildcats.
In the first regional poll from the NCAA, Chico State was voted favorably and found its name listed on the shortlist of successful programs. The first poll provided little national tournament seeding information, but their success has given them a spot in the conversation.
On Sunday, the Otters of Monterey Bay will travel to Chico for a senior day showdown; kickoff will be at 2 p.m., with a senior celebration held before game time.
