CLAREMONT, Calif. -- The George Fox women's soccer team opened their season on the road, traveling to California to face the Claremont-Mudd-Scripps Athenas. After a close first-half battle, the Bruins ultimately fell, 0-2.

How It Happened
The Athenas started strong on the attack, recording three shots in the opening seven minutes — Bruin goalie Emily Robey stopped each attempt, recording two routine saves. From there, both teams traded opportunities without breaking through the defense; Fox's Willa Evans put a shot on target in the 32nd minute, ending a 24-minute streak without a shot from both teams.

The best chance for the Bruins came in the 41st minute: after two Fox shots were just the mark, Lucy Brant had an opportunity to score on the ensuing corner kick. Brant's shot was just deflected by an Athena defender, with Hannah Beardemphl's follow-up sailing high. Heading into the half, the teams were deadlocked in a scoreless tie.

The CMS attack stayed persistent in the second half as the Athenas put up nine shots in the period. After three corners in four minutes, Annie McKinley put one past Robey and the Bruin defense to give the Athenas a 1-0 lead in the 62nd minute. 

20 minutes later, CMS stretched their lead to two with a Kateri Trujillo transition goal to put away the game. The Fox offense was unable to break past a smothering Athena backline, recording just two shots in the second half.

Top Performers
Emily Robey recorded five saves in her first collegiate game, playing all 90 minutes in goal. Becca Kozak, Willa Evans, and Lucy Brandt each totaled a shot on goal.

Coach's Thoughts
"Small margins made the difference," Bruin head coach Laura Schott, "It was a great out of conference matchup for us early in the season."

What It Means
The Bruins drop their opening game and now sit at 1-0, while CMS begins the year 1-0.

What Happens Next
Fox will finish up their California trip with a game against Chapman on Sunday, Sept. 3 at 11:00 a.m.