HILLSBORO, Ore. - The Portland State women's soccer team earned its first victory of the 2023 season on Sunday with a dominant 4-0 performance over Pacific (OR) at Hillsboro Stadium.

The victory improved the Vikings' record to 1-3-0 on the year. Sunday's match was an exhibition for Pacific, who will open its season this Friday. 

Portland State's offense was fairly quiet in the opening 45 minutes, scoring just one of its three goals in the first half. That goal came in the 16th minute off the foot of Abi Hoffman after a cross from Megan Devall. The Vikings headed into halftime with a 1-0 lead despite firing 17 shots to open the contest.  

The Vikings struck again in the 59th minute, as Kiara Van Deusen's corner kick slipped through the hands of Pacific's goalkeeper to give PSU a 2-0 lead.

Hoffman added to the lead in the 85th minute, completing her brace with a powerful right-footed shot following an entry pass from Audrey Williams. A well-struck goal by Ashley Peterson from 20 yards out capped Portland State's scoring in the 88th minute. 

The Vikings tallied 31 shots in the contest, the second most in program history and the highest number since 2002. 

The Viking defense was stellar from start to finish, allowing just two shots in the opening 45 minutes before holding the Boxers shotless in the second half. Natalie Cunningham earned her first career win in goal, recording two saves in the victory.

After a busy start to the season, the Vikings will get a ten-day break from competition before closing out their five-match home stand. They'll return to action on Thursday, Sept. 7 against Iowa State at Hillsboro Stadium (12:00 p.m.). 

  Read Full Article