Costa Mesa, CA- Going scoreless for 67 minutes with the number nine team in the NAIA provided Arizona Christian with thought of pulling off the upset against Vanguard.  But the Lions wore down the Firestorm to hand ACU the 2-0 loss.

All the chances in the world mean nothing if no one capitalizes.  Despite being outshot 12-1 in the first half, the Firestorm (6-7-1, 2-6 GSAC) held their heads high with that thought in mind.

The one chance for the Firestorm in the first 45 minutes was a shot by Freshman Kylie Neafus that was blocked.

Vanguard took the first shot of the second half before ACU had their best opportunity to get on the scoreboard.  Just over nine minutes into half number two, Junior Zoe Kalos served up a corner kick that connected with the head of Senior Dakota Gourgel whose attempt was on target but saved.

Rolling into the 68th minute the score remained deadlock at 0-0.  But the Lions (12-3, 7-1 GSAC) kept coming and finally broke the scoreless run of play with a goal at the 67:36 mark.

Fourteen minutes later, the Lions accounted for the second and final goal of the contest.

Senior Serenity Masterson did her part by producing nine saves including one that saw her push a high shot over her head into the crossbar and straight down onto the goal line where she then grabbed the ball before it could cross the line.

The defense of Gourgel, Junior Tasha Coleman, Freshman Kaitlyn May, and Freshman Sarah Carrell put forth their best effort which accounted for two team saves.

Director of Soccer Alan Berrios stated, "Girls played well today against the number nine team in the country.  We made a couple of mistakes that Vanguard capitalized on.  But overall girls are working hard and competing."

On Saturday, the Firestorm will have a chance to enhance their playoff opportunity when they face off with Hope International- who Arizona Christian currently holds a two point lead on for the final playoff spot.  The women will play at Fullerton College at 12:00 pm.