By Madison Rubino
La Verne Athletics Communication 

LA VERNE, Calif. —  The University of La Verne women's soccer team fought hard until the end but couldn't capitalize in a 2-0 loss against the University of Antelope Valley on Thursday night at Ortmayer Stadium.

The Leopards struggled to keep possession out of the gate while the Pioneers were consistently aggressive in the first half. The Pioneers translated their possession into a goal in the 38th minute when Eva Rivas received the ball in midfield and launched a shot from the right side just outside of the penalty box.

La Verne came out fighting the second half of the game and dominated the field. The Leopards held more possession over the ball and created better opportunities off counter-attacks but just couldn't find the back of the net.

With the Leopards pressing high, Rivas struck again in the 90th minute when she converted a cross from Saida Aparicio for the second goal of the game, putting the Pioneers in a winning position.  

Outside midfielder Juna Bouchekara was consistently the most active player on the field for La Verne. She used her speed and athleticism on the right wing to create more opportunities for La Verne and kept the defense off balance. 

Jessica Hernandez led the team offensively with three shot attempts, with two of them on goal.

The Leopards will regroup and face St. Thomas (Minn.) at Dallas, Texas on Saturday at 7 p.m. CT/5 p.m. PT.