BOISE, Idaho – The Boise State Broncos proved why they are the favorite to win the Mountain West Conference as they held off a scrappy Portland State women's soccer team to win 2-0 on Sunday afternoon.
 
"The team played extremely well today on both sides of the ball," said Head Coach Katie Burton. "Our defense was solid on the details and limited a very good front line to only three shots on goal. All around, best effort we have seen as a team."
 
The Vikings (0-7-0) played a strong first half, keeping the score 0-0 while keeper Enya Hernandez recorded three of her five saves in the half.
 
In the second half, Boise State (6-1-0) recorded the first goal of the game in the 65^th minute, crossing a ball into the box before heading in the game-winner just above the hand of Hernandez.
 
Portland State's offense kept up the push as they searched for the tying goal with Chloe Huling and Rilee Castilla both attempting shots ending in blocks just inside the box.
 
"Offensively, it was the most connected and dangerous we have been in the attack," said Burton. "We are seeing pairs and groups of threes develop more chemistry up and down the field."
 
The Vikings recorded a season-high 12 shots on the day as they continued to pressure the Broncos late in the match. Megan Cornett led the squad with three total shots. Portland State also earned a season-high in corners with seven.
 
The Broncos added to their lead in the 82^nd minute as Sherle Raimee sprinted down the right field line before launching a shot to the left of Hernandez and into the back of the net.
 
Sienna Higinbotham had one of the best looks for the Vikings late in the half, collecting the ball in the box before turning and firing a chip shot that the Broncos' keeper was just able to push just over the crossbar.
 
"We are making progress and better prepared for Big Sky after this weekend!" said Burton.
 
The Vikings will continue their six-match road trip next weekend as they face off against a couple of California schools in Saint Mary's and Pacific (Calif.) beginning Friday, Sept. 20 to close out nonconference play.