MERCED, Calif. - The Broncos earned their seventh shutout of the season with a 1-0 victory over UC Merced, marking the first-ever meeting between the two programs. The result improves the Broncos' record to 11-1-1 overall and 4-1-1 in CCAA play.
The game was tightly contested from the start, with both teams managing six shots apiece. The breakthrough came in the 57th minute when
Marisa Salazar found the back of the net with a low shot to the right side, capitalizing on an assist from
Kiarra D'Arcangelo. The goal was Salazar's fifth of the year, while D'Arcangelo notched her second assist of the season.
Defensively, Cal Poly Pomona remained composed and organized, allowing just one shot on goal. Goalkeeper
Jenna Tetrault recorded her sixth clean sheet of the season, making a crucial save in the first half to preserve the scoreline. The Broncos' backline held firm throughout the match, especially in a physical contest that featured 28 combined fouls and five yellow cards. Despite the stop-and-start nature of the game, CPP maintained control and composure, showing maturity and resilience in closing out the win.
Statistically, the match was evenly played. Both teams recorded six shots, but the Broncos were more clinical with four on target. Cal Poly Pomona also had the edge in corner kicks (4-1) and maintained discipline in defending, forcing UC Merced into low-percentage chances. Though the physicality escalated late, CPP held their composure to see out the result.
Up Next:
The Broncos will return home to host Cal Poly Humboldt on Friday, October 24th at 4:30 PM in the Cal Poly Clash. Looking to defend their title from last year's inaugural event, Cal Poly Pomona will aim for another strong showing, especially from the women's soccer team who secured vital points in their previous victory over Cal Poly Humboldt.
Bronco Bits:
- Jay Mason is now 93-49-24 as the head coach of the Broncos
- The Broncos are 1-0 all time against UC Merced
- Cal Poly Pomona is now 11-1-1 overall and 4-1-1 in CCAA conference play
- Now in its 42nd season, CPP Women's Soccer is 402-303-92 all-time with a 217-146-56 record in CCAA matches.
- Marisa Salazar has scored 19 career goals. She is currently third in program history
- Liberty Ortiz hit 1,000 minutes of play this season
