Sacramento State’s women’s soccer team earned a 2‑1 victory against Southern Utah on Saturday, pushing their unbeaten streak to four wins and one tie and tying the program’s best start through five games.
The breakthrough came in the second half when sophomore forward Candace Ching struck twice, delivering her first collegiate brace and the second brace recorded by a Hornets player this season. Her second goal, a one‑timer that curled into the net, proved to be the decisive strike.
Marely Velazquez Varela set up Ching’s opening goal with a precise pass, marking her first collegiate point, while senior midfielder Ellie Farber added an assist on the second tally, recording her ninth career helper.
Southern Utah answered early, with Halle Cowan opening the scoring just before halftime to give the Thunderbirds a 1‑0 lead.
Sacramento State’s defense tightened after the break, limiting the Thunderbirds to just three shots. Goalkeeper Alexa Malaspina made a crucial save and blocked two additional attempts, preserving the narrow advantage.
Overall, the Hornets outshot Southern Utah 11‑9, generating eight on‑frame attempts, three of which were Ching’s goals, underscoring the team’s attacking efficiency.
A Late‑Game Surge
Ching’s second‑half heroics illustrated the value of composure under pressure. After a quiet first half, the Hornets adjusted their tempo, pressing higher and forcing turnovers that created the space needed for Ching’s runs. Her ability to find pockets in the defense opened up passing lanes for Velazquez Varela and Farber, turning a single assist into a two‑goal swing.
Defensive Resilience
While the offense captured headlines, the backline’s discipline was equally important. Malaspina’s performance kept Southern Utah at arm’s length, and the team’s limited shot total reflected a collective effort to deny quality chances. The defensive unit’s chemistry, built over the early stretch of the season, appears to be clicking just as the schedule intensifies.
The team now turns its attention to a home contest against Fresno State scheduled for September 3 at 6 p.m., a match that could further cement their historic start.