Westmont Takes Title Over Cougars

ST. CHARLES, Mo. – Third-seeded Westmont defeated fifth-seeded Azusa Pacific University, 2-1, in the championship game of the 19^th Annual NAIA Women's Soccer National Championship hosted by Lindenwood University (Mo.). This is the Warriors second consecutive and fourth overall national title.

After a scoreless first half, tournament MVP Kristi Sullivan scored her first of two goals in the 64^th minute off an assist from Kristi Peich. Sullivan's second goal, the eventual game-winner, came just ten minutes later off a cross from Katie Cates. Azusa Pacific made a late charge with an unassisted goal in the 87^th minute by Erin Arbizu, but their rally fell short.

This was the third meeting this season for the two teams, with Westmont coming away with victories in all three matches. This was the fifth consecutive final four appearance for Azusa Pacific, which won the national title back in 1998. Senior defender Jen Sousa played in four semifinals and was named to the all-tournament team the past two years; she also earned the Outstanding Defensive Player award. The Cougars end an outstanding season with an overall record of 16-4-0.

Westmont captures its fourth national championship and their third in the last four years. The Warriors were making their ninth overall and seventh consecutive championship appearance. Westmont's championship marks the first time since 1995 that a team has won back-to-back titles. Pacific Lutheran University (Wash.) last accomplished the feat in 1994 and 1995. Also, six of the last seven champions have been from the west coast. The Warriors conclude their championship season with an overall record of 20-1-3.

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Players Mentioned

#4 Erin Arbizu: F; 5' 9"; Sophomore

Players Mentioned

#4 Erin Arbizu
: 5' 9"; Sophomore
: F

Players Mentioned

#4 Erin Arbizu

Players Mentioned

#4 Erin Arbizu