COSTA MESA, CA – Menlo Women's Soccer earns their first win on the road this season on Thursday afternoon after taking down the Vanguard Lions, 1-0. The lone goal was scored by Kawai Acopan (65') to push Menlo ahead. The Oaks are now 3-5-1 overall with a record of 1-2-1 in GSAC play. 

Acopan Leads the Way to an Oaks Win

Not much action was taking place during the first half for either side during the match. But coming into the second half, Menlo was fired up to score. Menlo was able to let off 6 shots just in the second half. In the Oaks third and final corner kick of the match, midfielder Kiran Pooni sent the ball into the box. The ball was pinning around until the Lions had a soft clearance to the top of the box. That is where midfielder Kawai Acopan took a touch and fired off a left-footed attempt to the upper right corner to find the back of the net.    

The sophomore from Pearl City, Hawaii has been a gem for the Oaks with 9 starts in all of Menlo's competitions this season. Acopan tends to create chances for the Oaks in the offensive third with 3 goals and 2 assists so far in the 2023 year. She has become a key role on the pitch and stepped up big time today to earn the win! 

Menlo Applies Pressure Offensively to Earn Win   

It was neck-and-neck the entire 90 minutes played today with great opportunities from both sides. Menlo launched 10 shots with 5 being on goal while the Lions were held to 5 shots, 3 on goal. Menlo was only given 3 corners where the Lions earned 5. Starting goalkeeper, Giorgia Melcore totaled 3 saves all in the second half. Once the Oaks took the lead they held back and focused on defending as a team to hold the shut out. This is a historical victory for the Oaks as they have never beaten the Lions on their home field. Head Coach Fred Delgado can walk away satisfied with the victory over a quality opponent. 

Up Next…

Menlo completes their SoCal trip with a stop up at Fullerton, CA to face off Hope International at OC Great Park on Saturday, October 21st at 1:30pm!