ATHERTON, CA – Menlo College Women's Soccer closed out their preseason schedule in dominant fashion on Friday afternoon, earning a 3-0 shutout victory over the San Francisco State Gators at home. The Oaks came out with energy from the opening whistle, finding the back of the net just 8 minutes into the match before adding two more goals in the second half. The result marked Menlo's third consecutive shutout to close the preseason.
Oak Highlights
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Olivia Sams scored twice, finding the back of the net in the 8th and 66th minutes.
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Avery Grieve added a goal in the 65th minute and recorded one assist.
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Jacky Vasquez Lopez tallied two assists to lead the Oaks' attack.
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Caroline Cordes made four saves and secured her third consecutive shutout.
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Menlo recorded a season-high 21 shots, including nine on frame.
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The Oaks earned six offensive corner kicks while allowing just one defensive corner.
Oaks Find Their Rhythm
Menlo wasted little time establishing its presence, generating multiple chances in the opening minutes before Olivia Sams broke through in the 9th minute. Sams' first goal of the season came off an assist from Avery Grieve, giving the Oaks an early 1-0 advantage. Menlo continued to pressure the Gators throughout the opening half, with shots from Sams, Grieve, Aaliyah Alatorre and Vasquez Lopez keeping the SF defense busy.
The Oaks carried that momentum into the second half, creating several more scoring opportunities before doubling their advantage in the 65th minute. Grieve found the back of the net off assists from Vasquez Lopez and Judd Eldredge Sagapolutele to make it 2-0. Just 21 seconds later, Sams headed her second one in, this time assisted by Vasquez Lopez, giving Menlo a three-goal cushion.
With the offense clicking, the Oaks' defense continued to hold strong on the other end. Cordes made four saves throughout the match, including two saves in the final 35 minutes, to secure her third consecutive shutout. Hailey Stevanus, Aaliyah Alatorre, and Tae Detwiler all started on the back line for the Oaks and went the full 90 minutes to keep Menlo steady with the ball in front. Menlo's defensive effort combined with contributions across the field helped the Oaks close out the preseason on a high note.
Up Next…
Menlo Women's Soccer will officially open its CCAA schedule on Thursday, September 18, when the Oaks are in Arcata, CA to face the Cal Poly Humboldt Lumberjacks. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 pm, as Menlo looks to carry its preseason momentum into the regular season.
