LA JOLLA, Calif. — UC San Diego edged the UC Santa Barbara Women's Soccer team 1-0 on Thursday night, erasing the chances of the Gauchos earning the top seed in The Big West Championships and being crowned Regular Season Champions. Despite the Gauchos' 22-shot barrage, including seven on goal, they were unable to find the back of the net. 

HOW IT HAPPENED
The first half began with UC Santa Barbara applying early pressure, securing two corner kicks within the first 10 minutes. Evelyn Arsenault and Mya Delaney both attempted shots, though neither found the target, with Delaney's going out at the top. UC San Diego responded with offensive efforts, but Maddie Buckley made a crucial save to maintain the tie match.

UC Santa Barbara continued to create opportunities with shots from Haley Phillips and Natalie Sheffey, as well as additional corners. Hayden Halscheid came close with a shot that was saved in the 42nd minute. Despite consistent offensive efforts, the half concluded with both teams level at 0-0.

UC Santa Barbara opened the second half with offensive pressure, as Delaney initiated a shot in the 51st minute. This effort was followed by multiple attempts from Olivia Howard and Caitlyn Simons, both saved by UCSD's goalkeeper. Despite the sustained pressure, the team could not convert its chances.

The Tritons shifted the momentum in the 81st minute after scoring the go-ahead goal. The Gauchos continued to press, with Isabella Ong and Delaney generating opportunities shortly after the goal, but unfortunately could not find the back of the net. A golden chance was shut down by the Tritons after Samantha Christie settled a cross on the doorstep of the goal, but was denied as a defender stepped in front. The Gauchos could not find the equalizer and fell 1-0 to the Tritons.

UP NEXT
The Gauchos have clinched a spot in The Big West Championships and will play next on Sunday, Nov. 2. However, the Gauchos will now wait for the conclusion of the UC Irvine at Hawai'i match. With a UC Irvine win, the Gauchos will move down to the fifth seed and travel to Irvine on Sunday, Nov. 2. With any other result, the Gauchos will be the fourth seed and host either Cal State Bakersfield or UC Irvine on Sunday, Nov. 2.