HONOLULU – In what might be one of the biggest wins in its 11-year history, the Chaminade University women's soccer team pulled off a 1-0 upset of Pacific West Conference-leading Point Loma Thursday at Saint Louis Field.
Nicole Nishiki accounted for the game's only goal coming in the 11
th minute. With a brisk wind blowing in towards the Sea Lions goal, Nishiki curled a corner kick from the left side where PLNU goalkeeper Ariel Oriarte snagged ball. But Oriarte's momentum off the perfectly-placed kick carried her into the net as the ball broke the plane of the goal line, giving the 'Swords the score and Nishiki her first career goal.
From there, the Silverswords manage to stave off repeated Sea Lion attacks. Chaminade netminder
Brandee Lane made 10 saves while reserve
Majorlyn McMillan made her collegiate debut, replacing Lane who was momentarily shaken up late in the first half, and made a save in the first shot she faced in her career. Lane returned in the second half and got the win while Oriarte was charged with the loss.
Caitlin Tatemichi took three shots for Chaminade, all on goal while
Bianca Gonzales and
Kelli Fryxell each took a turn with a shot towards the net.
The Silverswords improved to 3-9-1 overall and 3-6-1 in the PacWest as they snapped Point Loma's nine-match unbeaten streak and eight-game winning streak. The Sea Lions, who came into the match atop the PacWest standings, fell to 10-3-3 and 8-2-1 which dropped them to second place.
The 'Swords return to the pitch on Saturday in their final home game of the season against Azusa Pacific at 2:30 p.m. Seniors
Jana Kakugawa,
Marissa Liberato and
Lauren Uehara will be honored following the game.
