LA VERNE, CA — The University of La Verne women's soccer team battled Sunday morning against visiting UC Santa Cruz, bending but not breaking for most of the match.

But in the 88th minute, the Banana Slugs' Izel Gutierrez headed in a cross to give UC Santa Cruz a 1-0 win over the Leopards. 

Hanien Samara was stellar in the goal for the Leopards recording seven saves to keep the Leopards in the game.

The Leopards' backline played tough in the match, thwarting a relentless UC Santa Cruz that included 17 shots for most of the match.

Season Impact

The Leopards drop to 0-2 overall and the Banana Slugs improve to 1-1.

Next Game

The Leopards are back in action on Wednesday, September 4 when they host the St. Katherine Firebirds at 7 p.m.