The University of California, Merced Bobcats women’s soccer team earned a 0-0 draw against the No. 2 ranked Cal Poly Pomona Broncos on September 25, 2026, at Kellogg Stadium in Pomona, California. The result extends UC Merced’s unbeaten streak to seven matches, a program best since 2020 and only the second in school history.
Goalkeeper Alicia Lepe was instrumental in the shutout, recording a career-high eleven saves, the highest by a Bobcat since October 15, 2021. The junior from Modesto, California, also became UC Merced’s all-time leader in career shutouts with 24 and surpassed 100 career saves during the match. Lepe currently shares the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) lead with five shutouts this season alongside Cal Poly Pomona’s Parker LaMont.
Though outshot 16-7 overall with Cal Poly Pomona firing 12 shots on goal to UC Merced’s five, the Bobcats held strong defensively. Forward Jocelin Roa nearly scored in the 76th minute with a powerful shot that forced a leaping save and bounced off the crossbar; the goal was ruled out after video review. Defenders Sarai Fresquez, Jacqueline Tamayo, and Andrea Alvarenga Torres each played the full 90 minutes, contributing to the team’s resilience.
The draw leaves UC Merced with a 5-0-2 overall record and a 2-0-1 mark in conference play. The Bobcats will face another ranked opponent, No. 14 Cal State LA, on September 27 at University Stadium in Los Angeles.
CSB Take
The UC Merced Bobcats women’s soccer team demonstrated remarkable defensive discipline and resilience against a top-ranked opponent, bolstered by Alicia Lepe’s standout performance in goal. Holding the powerful Cal Poly Pomona Broncos scoreless while preserving an unbeaten streak highlights the program’s growth and competitive stature within the CCAA. As UC Merced prepares for another challenging matchup, this result provides confidence and momentum heading deeper into conference play, signaling a promising season ahead.
Source: Original report
