San Marcos, Calif - To open the 2022 season, Azusa Pacific women's soccer drew a 0-0 tie against a highly competitive Cal State San Marcos team on Thursday afternoon. 

How it Happened - Although a ball did not find the back of the net, it was still an action packed 90 minutes to open the season for Azusa Pacific. Both Cougar teams were evenly matched as they each finished the game with three shots on goal. 

Azusa Pacific pressured down field in the first half, utilizing a strong passing game as they took all three shots on goal in the first 28 minutes. The backline, including Mackenzie Coleman and Gianna Ocello who each played all 90 minutes had a strong showing, where they were able to work two scoreless halves and contribute to the Cougar's first clean sheet of the season. 

By the Numbers - 19 different Cougars saw the field this afternoon over the course of 90 minutes. Bethany Tee recorded two out of the three shots on goal while freshman Aubrey Dunaway also collected one. Azusa Pacific totaled five corner kicks compared to Cal State San Marcos' one, and Maddie Williams played in goal for the entirety of the game and collected three saves. 

Quotable: "I learned a lot about my team today and am excited for what's to come. It's hard to open on the road and while we didn't play to what we are capable of today, I saw a lot of grit and fight and those are two things you can't teach." said head coach Brooke Lincoln. "I saw a team that cares, has each other's back, and a lot of pride in keeping the ball out of the net. We gave up three shots today. We know where we have to grow and will work in those areas. San Marcos did a great job in the 2nd half with their adjustments and they deserve credit for that. Their girls work hard and gave us problems to solve. The best is yet to come and we are all looking forward to it."

Up Next - Azusa Pacific will have their home opener this Saturday, August 27th against Cal State Dominguez Hills. In last year's match up, the Cougar's favored the Toro's by a score of 3-1 in Carson, Calif. Kick off time is set for 7:00 p.m. at the Cougar Soccer Complex, and if you are not able to attend, you can watch the live stream for free here!