Phong Ly / The Collegian
Prior to Friday night’s scoreless draw against UC Santa Barbara, the Fresno State Bulldogs were already facing difficulties.
The team’s assist and shots on goal leader Molly Nizzoli was out due to an undisclosed injury that greatly affected the ‘Dogs’ offensive flow. Struggling to find rhythm throughout the first 40 minutes of the game, the ‘Dogs were constantly under attack from UCSB, who tallied multiple scoring chances that resulted in shots that were slightly off target.
Although Fresno State had more shots on goal (3-1) than Santa Barbara, the Dogs’ were fortunate to head into the second half tied 0-0.
After regrouping at halftime, Fresno State came out with a more aggressive and fierce attitude, leading to five fouls in the second period alone.
In the 78th minute a quick fistfight broke out between Fresno State’s Kendall Van Dine and UCSB’s Alissa Sanchez. Both players were ejected following the altercation and the two teams continued play with only 10 players each in the second half.
Although the ‘Dogs brought a more competitive edge to their game play, they were out shot by UCSB 9-6. Yet, late in the game, the Dogs’ had two missed scoring opportunities.
Forward Vanessa Gonzalez tallied both shots on goal for the ‘Dogs and her laser blasts almost went in for a goal, which would’ve sent the crowd home in a celebratory mood.
However, UCSB goalkeeper Makenna Henry stood firm and made impressive saves on both shots.
Defense for both teams was the main focus of the night, and the two clubs ended the second half scoreless, forcing the game into overtime.
UCSB took control of overtime, out shooting the Bulldogs 6-0 and the quality chances fell in favor of UCSB.
But, the Dogs’ defense held its ground and the teams finished both 10-minute overtime periods scoreless, ending the match in a draw.
“A lot of people stepped up today, especially Bianca Lopez, in the back line who also stepped up against Sacramento State,” Bulldogs goalkeeper Kaitlin Revel said. “But we need to finish better and score on our chances.”
The ’Dogs will open Western Athletic Conference (WAC) play Thursday when the team hosts in-state rival San Jose State at 7 p.m.
“We as a team need to be ready against our WAC rival and need to come out ready to shut San Jose State out,” Revel said.
Coach Brian Zwaschka hopes that his club will be able to bounce back to its winning ways. The ‘Dogs are 0-3 at home this season with one draw.
“Going forward, I will need to sit down and give some serious thought based on the fact that we have some injuries to deal with and we got the red card situation to deal with,” Zwaschka said. “However, we don’t have to play Sunday and will be well prepared and rested when Thursday rolls around next week.”
