The Sonoma State women's soccer secured their first victory of the season on Thursday with a 2-1 victory over the Dominican in a thrilling non-conference matchup.  The win improved the Seawolves to 1-2-2 on the season with two more non-conference matches on the schedule.

SSU came out strong from the opening whistle, applying pressure and creating early chances. Their efforts paid off in the 13th minute when junior forward Marivic Lek-Miro found the back of the net off an assist from midfielder Luna Chavez, giving Sonoma State a 1-0 lead.  Chavez sent a cross from the right sideline where Lek-Miro ran onto it and finished inside the back post. 

Throughout the first half, the Seawolves maintained control, outshooting Dominican 7-4 and forcing Penguins goalkeeper Natalie Haro to make three saves. Sonoma State's defense held tight, not allowing any good scoring chances and holding Dominican scoreless through 45 minutes. 

The second half saw both teams battling for score and Dominican pushing hard for an equalizer. However, it was Sonoma State who struck again in the 62nd minute. Mia Solorio-Smith doubled the Seawolves' lead with a well-placed header, assisted by the Lek-Miro and Krystal Tovar.  Lek-Miro sent a long pass into the box over the final defender where Solorio-Smith got space and tucked her header inside the far post. 

With a comfortable 2-0 lead, Sonoma State looked to be in control but the Penguins cut the deficit in half in the 78th minute on a free kick by Megan Clapinski.

The Seawolves' defense, led by goalkeeper Ariana Beddoes, stood tall in the face of Dominican's late surge. Beddoes finished the match with three crucial saves, helping Sonoma State weather the storm and secure the victory.

Offensively, the Seawolves were led by Lek-Miro, who not only scored the opening goal but also provided an assist on the game-winner. Her four shots and constant pressure kept the Dominican defense on their toes throughout the match. Solorio-Smith's goal proved to be the difference-maker, while midfielders Renee Ketner and Ashley Frye contributed to the attack with two shots each.

Eight different players recording at least one shot. The Seawolves outshot their opponents 16-11 and held a significant 8-4 advantage in corner kicks.
Sonoma State is back in action on Sunday when they host Westmont at 11:00 am at Seawolf Soccer Field.