Cougars Pounce Royals

AZUSA, Calif. -- The NAIA's No. 1-ranked Azusa Pacific began its assault from the opening kick-off, never looking back en route to their eighth win of the season, 5-0, over Hope International in Azusa to remain perfect in GSAC play.

The Cougars broke open the game with 2 goals in a 2-minute span, sparked by All-American Chrissy Sanfordâs seventh goal of the season in the 17^rd minute. She scored from 10-yards out into the upper right corner off an assist from sophomore Stephaine Lemburg.

Two minutes later, senior Andrea Alfiler scored on a header off a corner kick by junior Jen Sousa.

Freshman Stephanie Bays scored her fifth goal of the season in the 56^th minute, and freshman Stephanie Weber scored her first goal of the year just 3 minutes later. Sanford rounded out the scoring in the 62^nd minute.

Sophomore keeper Melissa Strother picked up her 12^th career shutout, sixth of the season, without much work. Strother was helped by the Cougar defense only allowing the Royals to cross midfield just four times in the second half.

The Cougars themselves had many scoring opportunities during the game. Azusa Pacific out shot Hope International 45-1, led by Sanford who tallied 11.

With the victory, the Cougars improve to 8-1 on the season and 5-0 in GSAC play. With the loss, Hope International falls to 4-8 on the season, 1-4 in GSAC play.

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Players Mentioned

#1 Melissa Strother: GK; 5' 10"; Sophomore

#9 Andrea Alfiler: M; 5' 7"; Senior

#12 Stephanie Bays: F/D; 5' 6"; Freshman

#22 Stephanie Weber: M; 5' 2"; Freshman

Players Mentioned

#1 Melissa Strother
: 5' 10"; Sophomore
: GK

#9 Andrea Alfiler
: 5' 7"; Senior
: M

#12 Stephanie Bays
: 5' 6"; Freshman
: F/D

#22 Stephanie Weber
: 5' 2"; Freshman
: M