ROHNERT PARK, Calif- Sonoma State gave everything they had and kept Santa Clara on the ropes for four quarters, but the Broncos were able to hang on to a 10-8 victory over the Seawolves.  Despite strong play from several key players, Sonoma State falls to 3-19 this season and 1-7 in WWPA play with the loss.  Santa Clara improves to 10-9 this season with a 5-3 conference mark.

In the first quarter, both teams went back in forth in what appeared to be the beginning of a shootout.  Laurel Stricklin put the Seawolves on the board early 1:30 into the match to knot up the score at 1-1.  After Santa Clara struck back, the Seawolves would then proceed to go on a 3-1 run to close out the quarter capped off by an Emily Pearce goal.

The second quarter turned into a defensive battle, highlighted by the strong play of both goalies.  Gina Uliana put on a solid showing, preventing the Broncos from causing too much damage.  However, on the other side of the pool, Stephanie Clements for Santa Clara matched Uliana wit for wit as both teams headed into half tied 5-5.

As valiantly as the Seawolves played, the Broncos came up big in the third quarter.  After two quick goals, Santa Clara again rode out the remainder of the period thanks to the crafty play of Clements and the defense to take an 8-5 lead into the final frame.

Sonoma State wasted no time in starting their comeback effort, as Brooke Smith scored first with 6:27 to play.  After both teams traded goals, Taylor Harkins put the Broncos up 10-7 with 3:38 to go.  This lead proved to be insurmountable for the Seawolves who narrowed the gap down to two but were unable to convert on some last minute opportunities.

Stricklin and Smith led the Seawolves attack scoring three and two goals, respectively.  Pearce provided two assists to go along with a goal of her own.  Uliana finished the match with eight saves in the cage.

Harkins carried the Broncos on offense with four goals.  Caitlin Espe and Jenny Knutson each finished with two goals apiece.

The Seawolves return to action this Saturday at the Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunner Invitational II where they open up competition against Cal State San Bernardino.  First sprint is scheduled for 10:15 am.