ATHERTON, CA – Menlo Women's Soccer showed heart and determination in their season opener, battling back in the second half to secure a 3-3 draw on the road against San Francisco State inside Cox Stadium. The Oaks saw two different goal scorers contribute, highlighted by a two-goal performance from forward Haley Dunham.
Oaks Rally From Behind
-
Kaylin Gonzalez scored Menlo's first goal of the season
-
Haley Dunham netted a brace, including the 85th-minute equalizer
-
Verenia Gonzalez picked up an assist and fired two shots on target
-
Senior goalkeeper Giorgia Melcore played the full 90 minutes with 2 saves
-
Menlo outshot the Gators 8-6 and finished with 5 shots on target
Dunham's Brace Powers Menlo's Comeback
Menlo struck first in the 30th minute when Kaylin Gonzalez capitalized on a pass from Verenia Gonzalez, giving the Oaks their first goal of the 2025 season. San Francisco State responded just before halftime, leveling the score at 1-1 heading into the break.
The Gators added two quick goals in the second half, but Menlo wasted little time answering back. Less than a minute after San Francisco State's third goal, Haley Dunham found the back of the net to keep the Oaks within reach. With pressure mounting late in the match, Dunham delivered again in the 86th minute, firing in the equalizer to complete her brace and seal a hard-earned 3-3 draw.
The Oaks displayed composure, outshooting the Gators 8-6 and maintaining equal possession throughout the contest. Giorgia Melcore anchored the defense in her senior debut, while Menlo's midfield and forward line generated consistent attacking chances to keep San Francisco State under pressure.
Up Next
Menlo Women's Soccer returns to action on Tuesday, September 9th, traveling to Rocklin, CA to face Jessup University in a non-conference matchup at 3:00 PM. The Oaks will look to build on their resilient performance and carry their offensive momentum into the road test.
