Aug. 24, 2007
DAVIS, Calif. - UC Davis closed out its preseason competition with a 1-0 victory over nationally ranked Cal, Friday, in an exhibition at Aggie Soccer Stadium. Jordan Martin scored what turned out to be the game-winning goal with just over 12 minutes remaining in the second half. The win gives the Aggies a perfect mark in the preseason after the team defeated Chico State, 3-0, in a scrimmage on Aug. 21.
Cal outshot UC Davis, 19-8, but it was Martin who blasted a shot from about 15 yards out past the Bears' keeper in the 78th minute that proved to be the difference. The play was set up by a corner kick on the right side that sailed over the initial group of players in the box. Lauren Huntley steadied the ball and fired a pass from the left side to Martin who promptly put the Aggies up 1-0.
Megan Daws helped secure the Aggies' victory by withstanding a barrage of shot attempts by the Bears in the game's final 11 minutes. The senior ended up with four saves in 30:28 of action, including three during that final stretch. Sarah Peters started in goal for UC Davis and was credited with three saves.
"Cal is a quality opponent, no doubt about it. They're ranked in the Top-25. They're a great team," said head coach MaryClaire Robinson. "I'm pleased with how we responded. We chased a little bit, but we battled and we battled as a team. We had some great team defense. The goalkeepers were excellent today. We did a great job of keeping the ball out of the net."
"We had some opportunities, and we finished," added Robinson. "It was a great, great training session today."
Five of the Aggies' eight shots were on goal. Both of Rochelle VanBuskirk's shots were of that variety. Samantha Faber led UC Davis with three shots.
Alex Morgan led Cal with six shots while Lisa Kevorkian posted five.
A total of 22 Aggies saw action in the exhibition.
Cal is ranked No. 18 in the preseason NSCAA/adidas poll.
UC Davis is next in action Aug. 31 when it hosts Kent State in its season opener at Aggie Soccer Stadium. The homestand concludes Sept. 2 against Fresno State.
