By Don Le — Reporter
San Jose State women’s soccer (0-1-0) hosts the University of San Francisco (0-0-1) Thursday Aug. 26 at Spartan Soccer Complex.
Coming off a 3-0 loss to Santa Clara University Aug. 19, the Spartans look to the support of friends, family, and fans as they play at the Spartan Soccer Complex.
“We love having fans out here,” said senior midfielder Natalia Naya on SJSU soccer’s Twitter. I have friends and family coming. It’s really exciting. It gives us something to play for.”
It is the Spartan’s first home opener at Spartan Soccer Complex since the early cancellation of the 2020-2021 season because of COVID-19.
“We’re just really looking forward to having fans back at the stadium, hearing them loud and proud… we’re really looking forward to seeing you back here after an incredibly hard COVID year,” said head coach Lauren Hanson.
The Spartans had a challenge drawing SCU, the defending national champions, as a season opener.
“We had a great test against Santa Clara, one of the best teams in the country, so a standard of what we need to live up to,” said Hanson.
One of the positives the team can glean from the SCU loss are the new players.
SJSU freshman goalkeepers Autumn Monty and Shayla Sugai combined for 10 saves against the Broncos, seven for Sugai and three from Monty.
The pair of new Spartans highlight the potential this young Spartan team has on the field.
As for the opposing team, the USF Dons are looking to get their first win this season after tying the Oregon Ducks 2-2 in their Aug. 22 season opener.
USF freshman defender Kenna Roth will be an offensive threat to watch on Thursday, scoring both USF goals against the Ducks.
Kick-off is at 7 p.m. Those unable to make the game can catch the action on the Mountain West Digital Network.
Follow Don on Twitter @SJSUDonLe