POMONA, Calif. – Cal Poly Humboldt nearly grabbed an early lead against No. 4 Cal Poly Pomona in a closely contested CCAA matchup, but ultimately fell 1-0 after a second-half goal by the Broncos. Despite a determined performance, the Lumberjacks came up short at Kellogg Stadium as Pomona extended their lead atop the conference standings.

The Lumberjacks (7-7-2, 4-4-1 CCAA) had a prime scoring chance early in the second half when Morgan Young was fouled in the box, setting up a penalty kick. Emma McChristie's attempt, however, ricocheted off the crossbar, keeping the match scoreless. Humboldt continued to press forward but could not capitalize before Pomona found their opportunity.

In the 68th minute, Pomona's Angelina Rivas found the back of the net on a free kick, scoring what proved to be the game-winning goal. Despite a series of second-half shots from Humboldt, Broncos goalkeeper Bella Hara maintained the shutout, recording three saves, including two in the closing minutes. Humboldt goalkeeper Carson Thomson-Terrel also delivered a strong performance, tallying six saves to keep the Lumberjacks within reach.

Humboldt's tenacity was evident, as they recorded eight shots, three on goal, while limiting the Broncos' chances and effectively defending against multiple Pomona corner kicks. The physical contest saw both teams combining for 22 fouls, with yellow cards issued to Humboldt's Megan Janikowski and Frida Duran Arellano, and Pomona's Tara Oper and Rivas.

The Lumberjacks showcased their resilience against one of the nation's top teams, as they kept Pomona (13-1-2, 6-1-2 CCAA) off the scoreboard for the majority of the game and came close to a potential upset. As they prepare for the final two games of the regular season, Humboldt remains in contention for a postseason position.

Match Summary
- Final Score: Cal Poly Humboldt 0, Cal Poly Pomona 1
- Goals: CPP - Rivas (68:07)
- Shots: Humboldt 8 (3 on goal), Pomona 15 (7 on goal)
- Saves: Humboldt - Thomson-Terrel 6, Pomona - Hara 3
- Penalty Kick: Humboldt - McChristie (missed)
- Fouls: Humboldt 11, Pomona 11
- Yellow Cards: Humboldt - Janikowski (67:59), Duran Arellano (77:49); Pomona - Oper (82:13), Rivas (89:29)

Tournament Contention
With wins on Friday from Cal Poly Pomona (20 points), Stanislaus State (18 points), Cal State LA (16 points), Cal State Monterey Bay (14 points), Cal State East Bay (14 points), and Cal State San Bernardino (14 points), the 'Jacks (13 points) are currently in seventh place in the CCAA standings with two games to go. Third place (16 points) to seventh place (13 points) is separated by one game, showing it can be anyone to earn a spot in the CCAA Tournament at College Creek Field. The top six teams will advance to CCAA postseason play. 

Looking Ahead
Humboldt will face Cal State San Bernardino (5-5-5, 4-3-2 CCAA) on Sunday at 2:00 PM in the final regular season road game of the year. For more information on Cal Poly Humboldt Women's Soccer, please visit humboldtathletics.com, download our mobile app, and follow us on all social media platforms.