Two goals scored early in the second half proved to be the difference as The Master’s University women’s soccer team defeated the Chapman University Panthers 2-1 Wednesday, Sept. 10 in Orange.

The Lady Mustangs (2-2) had to fight off a physical challenge from the beginning as the Panthers came out aggressive and dominated the possessions during the first 15 minutes of the match.

“But we weathered the storm,” said TMU Head Coach Esteban Chavez. “The way they jumped on us they were very athletic. But after the half, it gave us a breather and gave us some confidence.”

Breanna Fajardo scored off an assist from Maddy Traylor just 4:12 into the second frame. Traylor then followed up with her fourth goal of the season just 3:30 later to make it 2-0 TMU.

Master’s had 11 shots in that second half compared to six in the first. The Panthers finished with eight shots for the whole match.

“I honestly think the girls got their second wind and created their own opportunities in that second half,” Chavez said. “It goes back to the week when we had Westmont, Westcliff and Biola. Those teams were very deep. We had to get stronger as the game wears on. There’s a lot of belief that our girls are willing to fight and compete. So (today) shows how gritty we are and how we will play for the team, even when you’re tired and fatigued. They are willing to suffer.”

Both Traylor and Katie Trinh took four shots, with two apiece for Fajardo, Kegan Brunnemann and Mia Thompson. Sasha Redshaw and Harmony Rohde each got a shot off as well.

Autumn Jensen spent the full game in goal and collected a pair of saves.

The Master’s will stay on the road on Saturday when they travel to Redlands to take on the Bulldogs. Match kicks off at 5:30 p.m.

For more information visit GoMustangs.com.