A Strong Start
The Sacramento State women's soccer squad enters the week unbeaten, sitting at 3‑0‑1 and boasting a 9‑4 goal differential that already eclipses half of last season’s total. Ranked No. 7 in the Division I West Region poll by United Soccer Coaches, the Hornets are preparing to host Southern Utah on Thursday, Aug. 27, at 3 p.m. at Hornet Soccer Field.
Coach Candace Ching’s side is anchored by captains Ellie Farber and Lexi Schroeder, who have combined for two game‑winning goals this season and sit among the nation’s top scorers. Freshman forward Gracen Blieschke has quickly become a spark, contributing a goal and an assist for three points, while sophomore goalkeeper Alexa Malaspina made a strong Division I debut with four saves in relief against Nevada. The roster also features Tatum Trout, Steven Lindquist, Delaney Timmons, Mia Jackson, Jaety Mandaquit and Tierra Pickell, each adding depth as the squad looks to sustain its early momentum.
A Test Before the Big West
Southern Utah arrives at 2‑2 overall, having split matches against The Citadel and in‑state rival Utah, and looks to avenge a 2‑0 loss in Sacramento from 2021. The upcoming clash marks the first meeting in Sacramento since that defeat, and the Hornets hold a 6‑4 edge in the all‑time series.
With The Big West Conference schedule looming, the team views this match as a critical test before confronting tougher opponents, and Coach Ching emphasizes the need to maintain momentum. As the Hornets gear up for the challenge, the depth of talent promises an exciting contest that could further cement their early‑season narrative.