By Chris Estrada — Contributing Writer
Riding momentum coming off their first win on the season, San Jose State women’s soccer faced undefeated UC Riverside Friday night trying to make it two in a row, but fell as the offense came out flat.
The Spartans (1-4-2) fell behind early after UCR (7-0-1) defender Amanda Roy broke the tie in the 12th minute with a header after a corner kick. That would be all the Highlanders would need as they held SJSU’s offense in check all game long.
SJSU only managed four total shots and two shots on goal. Three of the four shots did come in the second half.
The closest to scoring came in the final minute when senior forward Darriell Franklin’s shot was blocked and saved by Highlander goalie Annie Bailey. With only 40 seconds left on the clock, it locked up the game.
A big difference from Sunday where they had 16 shots with nine SOG against UC Davis.
After the goal, the Spartan defense was up to par with UCR keeping them scoreless the rest of the game and goalkeeper Paige Simoneau had two saves.
“This was a hard- fought match and one that I think we can grow from,” head coach said to SJSU Athletics.
UC Riverside is 6-0 at home and has not allowed a goal at home this season. It was a tough matchup for the Spartans but one they may have needed as non-conference play has come to an end.
SJSU will have to look beyond the slow start as Mountain West play begins next week. The Spartans have a good back field but you can’t win if you can’t score. Three goals in seven games will not get the job done. If the offense can figure themselves out, then SJSU will be a force to be reckoned with in the Mountain West.
The conference opener will be a home matchup against Colorado College Friday, September 21st with kickoff scheduled for 6:30 p.m.
Follow Chris on Twitter @estradadotc