ATHERTON, CA – Menlo Women's Soccer battled to a 1-1 draw against Cal State Dominguez Hills on Senior Day, as Olivia Sams found the back of the net in the 83rd minute to help the Oaks secure a point at home. After conceding an early goal, Menlo continued to push forward and was rewarded late in the second half, with Praisia Lowe providing the assist on Sams' equalizer.
Oak Highlights
-
Olivia Sams scored the equalizer in the 83rd minute.
-
Praisia Lowe recorded one assist on Sams' goal.
-
Menlo recorded 14 shots, putting five on frame, compared to five shots and one on target for Cal State Dominguez Hills.
-
The Oaks earned four offensive corner kicks while allowing three defensive corners.
Sams Saves a Point for the Oaks
Cal State Dominguez Hills opened the scoring in the 13th minute to give the visitors a 1-0 advantage. Menlo worked to find an equalizer throughout the first half, creating several promising opportunities. Cleo Carmichael tested the Toros' defense with multiple attempts, while Leilani Phillips put a shot on target that was saved by the Toros goalkeeper. Despite generating attacking pressure and earning corner kicks, the Oaks entered halftime trailing by one.
Menlo continued to search for its breakthrough after the break, with Avery Grieve and Phillips among those looking to spark the attack. The Oaks kept pressing as the second half progressed, and Sams made her presence felt with a shot on target in the 82nd minute that forced another save from the Toros. Just moments later, Menlo found the equalizer. In the 83rd minute, Lowe set up Sams, who finished to level the match at 1-1 and ignite the home sideline. The late goal capped a determined effort from the Oaks, who held on through the final minutes to secure the draw on Senior Day.
Up Next…
Menlo closes out its CCAA schedule on Thursday, October 29, when the Oaks travel to face Monterey Bay. Kickoff is scheduled for 12 pm as Menlo looks to finish the conference season on a strong note.