DENVER, Colo.--The University of Denver (5-1) defeated CSU Bakersfield (2-5) 1-0 in the first round of the University of Denver Invitational Friday afternoon at CIBER Field.

After a scoreless first half, the Pioneers’ Katy Van Lieshout broke the seal when she scored off a crossing pass from Kristen Hamilton at 53:28. The Roadrunners had a chance in the final minute when Daisy Vasquez (R-Jr., Redwood City, Calif., Woodside HS) took a corner kick with 54 seconds to go. The ball made its way to Taylor French (Fr., Monrovia, Calif., Maranatha HS) who took a shot with 33 seconds remaining, but Denver’s Lara Campbell to secure the victory for the Pioneers.

“We made strides in our performance tonight against a respectable, top 50 caliber opponent,” said CSUB head coach Melissa Phillips. “We showed superb character and are determined not to get a result Sunday.”

The Roadrunners conclude the tournament Sunday afternoon when the Roadrunners face Colorado at 2 p.m. (MDT).

~www.GoRunners.com~

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