LONG BEACH, Calif. --- UCI and LBSU had another epic women's soccer battle Saturday night at George Allen Field, and the Anteaters got the victory in the final minute of play thanks to a Rachel Wood penalty kick for the 1-0 win.
As the second overtime was approaching its end, senior Mar Rodriguez fired a shot from the top of the box catching a Long Beach State player's hand awarding UCI with a penalty kick with just 55 seconds remaining. Rachel Wood, who is 4-for-4 all-time from the penalty spot, stepped up and connected for the game-winner in a crucial Big West match.
Corey Tobin and the defense held strong all night for UCI (9-8-1, 5-1-1). Tobin stopped four shots including one in the first overtime period.
LBSU star Nadia Link was held in check with three shots and none on target. Dana Sanderlin led UCI's charge with three shots and one on target for Marrina Meyers' only save of the night.
UCI worked deep into the night to put themselves over .500 for the first time this season at 9-8-1. The 'Eaters go to 5-1-1 in Big West play lifting them into sole possession of second place, one point behind Cal Poly.
UCI has another big test in the coming week as it welcomes the Matadors of Cal State Northridge on Friday, October 26th. The 7:00 p.m. match will pit two of the top teams aiming for Big West postseason together in UCI's final weekend of regular season play.
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