By Brian Magloyoan | Texas Woman's Athletics Communications
 
BELLINGHAM, Wash. — With less than five minutes left in the week's final match, Riley Sutton delivered the decisive goal against Concordia Portland on Saturday.
 
"It was an overall gritty performance by our team," head coach Babak Abouzar said. "Things weren't going our way but we found a way to win."
 
After a scoreless first half, the Pioneers conceded the opening goal of the match in the 47th minute. 
 
"We were a little unfortunate to give up a goal so early in the second half," Abouzar said. "But we didn't let that phase us."
 
Just under four minutes later, Jazmine Navarro netted her first goal of the season, benefitting off an assist from Sutton. Then in the final minutes of the match, Hannah Schneider found Sutton for the game-winning goal. 
 
"The second goal was very similar (to the first) but the ball came from a service on the left side from Hannah," Abouzar reflected. "Riley kept her composure and finished her opportunity."
 
Daniela Marin anchored the Pioneers defensively, recording seven saves on eight attempts.
 
"This result gives us confidence and momentum heading into conference," Abouzar said. "We'll enjoy it today and get ready for a tough Midwestern (State) team on Thursday."
 
Texas Woman's will host Mustangs in the conference opener on Thursday night at Pioneer Soccer Park at 7 p.m.