Like we expected, the 2009 version of the Long Beach State women’s soccer team is solid on the back line.  And if the 1-0 win over Azusa Pacific is any indication, it’s going to be a day-to-day battle to get pressure up front.

Freshman Whitney Velez scored the only goal in the 17th minute after two nice touches from Lindsay Bullock and Shawna Gordon.  Other than that, coach Mauricio Ingrassia told the media after the game that it was the turnovers and lack of possession that put his girls on their heels and limited the offense.

In goal, Emily Kingsborough, Nicoline Jorgensen and Kelsey Welton-Baldwin each played quality minutes.  They combined for four saves on six shots.  Jorgensen saw the most pressure from Azusa Pacific and made back-to-back great stops in the second half.

For more about this team, opening day, and a discussion with Ingrassia, click here