Preseason Finale Ends in a Draw
Cal Poly’s women’s soccer squad concluded their preseason schedule with a 1‑1 stalemate against Pepperdine, a result that underscores the team’s readiness for the upcoming 2026 campaign.
The breakthrough came in the 79th minute when Sam Liaty found the net, capitalizing on a midfield connection with junior Mya Clarke and senior Annika Smith that moved the ball into dangerous territory.
Pepperdine answered back just minutes later, leveling the score in the 89th minute to preserve a share of the points and add a dramatic finish to the exhibition.
Goalkeeper Shannon Porubski kept the match competitive with two crucial saves, highlighting the defensive resilience that will be vital when the season begins.
The preseason draw marks the final tune‑up before the team opens the regular season against UNLV on Wednesday, a game that will test the chemistry forged during the summer.
Following the UNLV encounter, Cal Poly will travel to face No. 1‑ranked Stanford on August 16 as part of Club Soccer Day, a fixture that promises a stark contrast in competition level.
All of these events unfolded at Mustang Memorial Field at Spanos Stadium in San Luis Obispo, California, a venue that continues to serve as the home base for the program’s early‑season battles.