IRVINE, Calif. – The Concordia University Irvine Eagles scored an early goal and added an equalizer late to earn a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Dixie State.

The Eagles started the game out strong when Emma Lyon net her first goal on the season. Cienah Reed was credited with the assist as the duo caught the Dixie State defense off guard and helped CUI grab an early 1-0 lead.

The remainder of the first half there was minimal action. However, that changed just a few minutes into the second half. Dixie State seized the momentum and found a way to get on the board.  Jill Bennett took a shot and converted for an unassisted goal to tie the game up at 1-1.  Around 20 minutes go by and Dixie State's Kelsey Cook scored to give them a 2-1 lead. 

As the clock was winding down the Eagles were fighting time.  Jadenn Carrillo steps up to take a corner kick and a rare play occurred.  Carrillo scored off the corner kick to tie the game up with about seven minutes left in regulation.  With the score now 2-2 the defensive line stayed strong for the remainder of the game and did not allow the Trailblazers to score again in regulation.

Overtime struck and both teams tried to find the right combination but both the Eagles and Trailblazers could not cash in and the game resulted in a draw. 

"I am really proud of our team because when you go down after having the lead a lot of teams will shut down," said Gould. "I thought our girls again showed a lot of grit and a lot of character and our program from the bench and on the field really pulled together to get the second goal back."

CUI's defensive line again put forth a great effort and tracked down balls left and right to prevent Dixie State from scoring down the stretch. 

The Eagles are looking to catch some rest for the next week and get ready for their home game against Azusa Pacific on Saturday, Sept. 28th for a non-conference match up.  Click here for the rest of the CUI women's soccer schedule.