Box Score ELLENSBURG, Wash. - The Central Washington University women's soccer team lost by a score of 0-2 versus the Chico State Wildcats in the season opener.
 
"Chico State is a tough opponent, they showed some phenomenal goalkeeping," head coach Lindsey Lee said. "I think it will help us that our preseason schedule is not an easy one. We'll be playing some quality teams to get us ready for GNACs."
 
Chico St. started off the match with more offensive pressure than CWU. They recorded four shots before the 19-minute mark until their fifth shot hit the back of the net. Chico St. took the lead in the 20th minute from a Brynn Howard header from a corner kick
 
The first half ended with Chico St. ahead by one goal. CWU logged their first shot of the game in the 28th minute, but it missed wide left. Central didn't log another shot in the first half.
 
Central started to garner more pressure around the 60th minute, but the pressure only culminated into a pair of shots for Sydney Edwards and Peyton Vogel.
 
Chico St. found their stride again and added another goal in the 90th minute. The goal, scored by Klayre Barres, came from a direct free kick about 30 yards out. The match ended 0-2, with CWU dropping their first match of the year.
 
"I think the second half was a better response – I think it was closer to who we were, there's still a lot of moments of learning and growth to do," added coach Lee. "My biggest takeaway is that we do have depth – we have a lot of talented players that can fill rolls."
 
Central will have an opportunity to bounce back Saturday with a home matchup versus the San Francisco State Gators. Kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m.