CHICO, Calif. - Another Chico State women's soccer season has begun, and the Wildcats opened up the fall with a strong team showing, claiming their first win of the season 2-1 over the Regis University Rangers.
The 'Cats opened up last season with a road win over the Rangers in Colorado and were able to duplicate their result on their home field this time around.
Senior Kylie Rolling made an immediate impact after subbing into the match in the 16th minute and ten minutes later, netting the first goal of the season for the program and securing the lead early into the game. Rolling's composed finish is the second goal of her Wildcat career and was crucial in building momentum for her team.
The Rangers had their share of chances, recording nine shots, with three finding the frame of the net. Emma Hofmann picked up two saves in her first start of the season in the net. The Wildcats' defense worked cohesively as newcomer Madison Schuler began solidifying herself as a vital member of the backline.
Six new Wildcats debuted for the program in the 2-1 win: Alexia Chavez, Taylor McMahon, Gabby Starr, Gabby Flores, Alyssa Marceau, and Schuler. The 'Cats have added impressive depth to their bench, and the substantial additions will continue to make strong strides in supporting the entire group.
Early into the second half, the Wildcat's quick transition offense was on display, with Brynn Howard leading the attack in the midfield. After dishing the ball off to Hannah Pieri, the Orangevale native noticed her sister Avery making a break for the back post. Hannah put the ball in the perfect spot for her sister to tap the ball into the back of the net to double the Wildcats' lead.
Last season, the Pieri sisters connected for the game-winning goal against the Rangers in Colorado in their first on-field appearance together as Wildcats.
Their goal proved to seal the win for Chico State as the Rangers nabbed back a goal in the 63rd minute. Their late-game push did not produce any other goals, and the Wildcats started their regular season of 1-0.
