Fresno, Calif. — The Pepperdine Waves women’s soccer team secured a 4-0 shutout road victory against the Fresno State Bulldogs Thursday night at Bulldog Soccer Stadium. Pepperdine led 2-0 at halftime and extended the lead with two more goals early in the second half.
Freshman midfielder Fiona McCormick scored the first two goals of her collegiate career, including a long-range strike shortly after halftime. Forward Julia Quinonez added her fifth goal of the season to tie for the West Coast Conference golden boot lead, and Sam Hosford also scored for the Waves.
Goalkeeper Ava Hartstein made six saves in her first collegiate career start, earning her first shutout. Pepperdine dominated the shot totals with 21 compared to Fresno State’s eight and held a 7-0 corner kick advantage in the first half alone.
Head coach Tim Ward praised the team’s all-around performance following the game. He highlighted Hartstein’s shutout, the defensive effort, McCormick’s first goals, offensive contributions from Quinonez and Hosford, and the return of Ava Schall after a long recovery. Ward called it “a wonderful night on so many levels.”
Pepperdine improved to 3-2-2 overall and 0-0 in West Coast Conference play. The Waves also extended their unbeaten streak against Fresno State to five consecutive matches and hold a 7-1-1 all-time record versus the Bulldogs. This victory stands as Pepperdine’s largest margin of road victory since a 5-0 win at Pacific in 2024.
The Waves return home Sunday to host the University of Arizona at Tari Frahm Rokus Field for senior day festivities and a mental health awareness event, with kickoff scheduled for noon Pacific Time.
CSB Take
Pepperdine Waves women’s soccer showcased strong team depth and emerging talent with their 4-0 shutout road win over Fresno State. Freshman Fiona McCormick’s two-goal performance and Ava Hartstein’s impressive goalkeeping debut provide the Waves valuable confidence as they enter conference play. Maintaining this level of play will be key as Pepperdine looks to build momentum at home during senior day and beyond in the West Coast Conference season.
Source: Original report
