CHICO, Calif. - The No.4 Broncos of Cal Poly Pomona visited Chico for a face-off against the Wildcats, taking on their first nationally-ranked program in the conference season.

Chico State sparked a handful of strong offensive pushes against the undefeated Broncos but found it difficult to hit the frame of the goal.

Claire Schnabel earned her first season start for the Wildcats, making seven saves in her home debut with the program.

A first-half shutout was a positive for the Wildcats to take into the second half; Natalie Mendoza and Brynn Howard dominated much of the midfield in the opening half. 

A pair of second-half goals from the Broncos showcased their offensive prowess, creating a problematic deficit the 'Cats found troubling to overcome.

Late into the second half, the 'Cats continued to work the ball into their attacking third, with Natalie Mendoza and Jiana Martin finding chances but could not keep it below the crossbar.

The Wildcats will host Cal State San Bernardino on Sunday in their final season home appearance; kickoff is at 11:30 a.m. at University Soccer Stadium.