CHICO, Calif. - The Wildcats continue to keep their name in the mix for the postseason tournament in early November; with Sunday's win on Senior Day over the Otters, they've given themselves a great chance. The Otters would not let Chico State have an easy win, keeping the 'Cats at bay until the 66th minute when Natalie Mendoza finally gave them the lead from the penalty spot.

In an unforeseeable outcome, the Wildcats are in a must-win or tie situation to secure an appearance in the postseason tournament. Currently in third place in the standings after Sunday's matchday throughout the CCAA, but with four other teams clipping at their heels heading into the final match for the CCAA regular season.

Cal State LA, Cal State San Bernardino, Stanislaus State, and Cal Poly Humboldt all sit just below Chico State on the standings—with losses or ties from any of these teams, the Wildcats will clinch a spot. To host the first-round match in the tournament, Chico State will need to win or tie this Thursday at Stanislaus or losses from Cal State San Bernardino, Cal State LA, and Cal Poly Humboldt. 

Seniors Piper Matson, Mikayla Robertson, and Nicole Fairbanks were honored before the match for Senior Day; they have left a lasting legacy at Chico State and have represented the program with class and conviction.

In the second half, the Wildcats were breaking past the Otters' back line and putting the ball in dangerous areas in front of the goal but couldn't slip one over the line. Finally, in the 66th minute, a loose ball in the box was struck into the arm of a defender, forcing a shot from the spot, and Natalie Mendoza made easy work converting from 12 yards away.

Mendoza has three goals on the season, adding another game-winner to her tally.

Monterey Bay found their chances in front of the net, but the Wildcats threw their bodies in front of any shots, trying desperately to hold onto the win. Emma Hofmann made two crucial saves and secured not only the win but her sixth shutout of the season.

Summer Baron has continued her incredible stint in the offense for the Wildcats, herself and Mendoza leading their team with three shots each. Kylie Rowling almost added her own goal to the board with a left-footed strike in the 40th minute, veering away from the net slightly and slamming the left post.

The Chico State women's soccer team will host Stanislaus State this Thursday in a crucial finale of the CCAA regular season; kickoff will be at 2 p.m. and broadcast on the CCAA Network.