SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Menlo Women's Soccer battled throughout a tightly contested California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) matchup against Cal State San Bernardino on Friday, but the Oaks came up just short in a 0-1 defeat to the Coyotes. Despite the early setback, Menlo goalkeeper Caroline Cordes delivered a strong performance to keep the Oaks within striking distance throughout the contest.
Oak Highlights
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Caroline Cordes recorded four saves across 90 minutes in goal.
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Isabel Amador registered a shot and was the only other Oak to play the full 90 minutes.
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Menlo defended eight corner kicks while earning three of its own on the offensive end.
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Second-Half Fight: Menlo continued to compete after the break, looking for an equalizer until the final whistle.
Cordes Denies Penalty Kick
Cal State San Bernardino struck early, finding the back of the net in the seventh minute. Menlo responded with an early attacking opportunity of its own, as Isabel Amador recorded a shot less than a minute after the opening goal. The Oaks continued working to find their rhythm as the first half progressed, while Cordes and the Menlo defense worked to limit the Coyotes' advantage.
The second half saw Menlo continue to battle against a persistent Cal State San Bernardino attack. One of the afternoon's biggest moments came just two minutes into the period when the Coyotes earned a penalty kick. Cordes came up with a crucial save on Pena's attempt, keeping the deficit at one and giving the Oaks an opportunity to fight their way back into the match. Cordes remained steady between the posts, adding another pair of saves later in the half to prevent the Coyotes from extending their lead.
Menlo continued to search for an equalizer in the closing stages, with Ella Liebhardt registering a second-half shot as the Oaks looked to generate an attacking breakthrough. Despite their efforts and Cordes' key saves, the equalizer remained elusive, and the Coyotes held on for the 0-1 victory. Menlo will look to regroup and carry its competitive effort into its next conference matchup.
Up Next....
The Oaks return to the pitch on Sunday, October 11, to take on the Cal Poly Pomona Mustangs. Kickoff is scheduled for 11 am as Menlo looks to bounce back and earn a result on the road.
