Defense ruled the night on Friday at Titan Stadium as host Cal State Fullerton and Utah battled to a scoreless draw in the regular season opener for both teams in front of 428 fans.

The Titans (0-0-1 overall) could not take advantage of an 11-5 lead in the shots column for the match -- including a 9-1 advantage in the second half alone -- as the offense seemed to be just a step too quick, whistled for seven offsides on the night -- five of those coming in the first half and stunting three would-be breakaways for Fullerton.

Three of Utah's (0-0-1 overall) five shots came in the second overtime period as the Utes poured it on in the final three minutes, including what could have been the game-winner on a cross by Jill Robison near the endline that deflected off the far post and away from harm by mere inches.

Sophomore Lindsey Maricic earned her second career shutout without having to make a save while Hannah Turpin and Cheyanne Mulcock split time in net, the latter making four saves after starting the second half and playing both overtime periods.

After both teams took just one shot in the first 45 minutes, the Titans' offense came out with goals on its mind. Junior Ann Marie Tangorra tested Mulcock eight minutes in, driving in on the keeper, who made a sliding stop. Less than two minutes later, sophomore Kishi Smith broke in through the defense and caught Mulcock a little out of position, but her chip over the keeper's head hit square off the crossbar, keeping the match scoreless.

Tangorra, playing in her first match as a Titan, led all players with three shots on the night while junior Stacey Foxand Kishi Smith finished with two apiece. In all, seven players finished with shots on the night for Fullerton. Jill Robison came off the bench to lead Utah with two shots on the night.

The Titans close out their opening weekend on Sunday (Aug. 21) at 6 p.m. as they host Long Island in a non-conference clash originally scheduled for 4 p.m.

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