IRVINE, Calif. – CUI women's soccer is back to competition after not playing an opponent for over a year!

The Eagles had their first game under the lights and excitement was filling the cool night air.

"Tonight was a dream come true for Chris and I to see our girls competing under the lights for the first time ever," said assistant coach Cheyne Gordon. "The support from the administration has been incredible, not only for our program, but for all of our athletes here at Concordia to make sure we are competing."

This was an exhibition match against Vanguard and the Eagles showed out with a win, 3-0. The Eagles started strong and put pressure on the Lions defense early as Carmany Jones scored within the first 15 minutes. Jones scored the penalty kick she earned with ease. This was a big game for Jones as she was out due to injury last season.

"It felt really good to be the first team to play under the lights tonight," said Jones. "Coming into this game I was really nervous and excited since I haven't played a real game in almost 2 years. I worked really hard in PT over the past year to get to this spot and I'm just happy that I was able to get a goal and have my hard work pay off. I'm super proud of my team because all of us played really well together."

The Eagles did not let up as they scored two more goals in the second half. Analisa Gjonovich got a nice ball in for Brianna Guerra to score her first goal as a CUI Eagle! Then with seconds left to go in the game Marianna Maldonado scored big to bring the Eagles to a final score of 3-0. The Eagles remain true to their strong defensive tactics as they earn this shutout and held Vanguard to only three shots.

"The game itself was hard fought from both teams," said Gordon. "Vanguard plays an aggressive style and we managed to find ways to be successful and execute on some of the things we have been working on in training. Chris and I couldn't be prouder of the work the girls have put in so far!"

Women's soccer is back and all the Eagles are so excited to cheer them on this season. The next game is at Biola on Feb 10 at 7:00 p.m. for the PacWest battle of the Eagles!
For the full women's soccer schedule CLICK HERE!

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