By Ron Smith
September 13, 2025
 
(SANTA BARBARA, Calif.) A goal in the 86th minute by Ellie Gilbert gave Westmont Women's Soccer a 1-0 exhibition win over the California Lutheran (3-1-1) on Saturday afternoon at Thorrington Field. The contest was considered a countable game for the Regals.
 
"I'm really proud of our group for their buy-in, energy, and the determination to find a way," said Westmont's head coach Lauren Matthias. "I think it was a bit of a rollercoaster of a game. We still need to continue growing in our ability to trust the process and each other, but I'm proud of the fight to get it done today, especially off another set piece. We have been talking a lot about being able to capitalize off set piece moments, especially if run of play opportunities aren't hitting."
 
With the clock showing less than five minutes remaining in the game, Westmont was awarded a free kick when Gilbert was fouled by Hana Sawan. Madison Ford took the free kick from 40 yards out on the right flank and sent it into the box on the left side. Grace Rhodes received the service and sent it to the right side of the goal, where Gilbert finished with her right foot.
 
"I thought Grace Rhodes did a fantastic job coming off the bench and being composed and assertive," noted Matthias. "The goal was a total team effort and I love that multiple players were involved. We were super gritty."
 
The late game winner was only possible because of an outstanding save in the 49th minute. The Regals were awarded a penalty kick after Westmont committed a foul in the box. California Lutheran's Ryan Kaneko took the PK, sending the ball low and inside the left upright. Westmont goalkeeper Katie Lannon anticipated correctly, dove to her right and got her right hand on the ball, redirecting it away from the goal.
 
"Katie held the shut out for us, as well as Makenna Meyers leading from the back," reflected Matthias.
 
Westmont took a total of 16 shots in the game, seven of which were on goal. The Regals tallied eight shots, three of which were on target. Both teams had four corner kicks opportunities.
 
The Warriors (0-3) will return to countable play next Saturday when they travel down the coast to take on the Cougars of Cal State San Marcos (1-0-1. The Cougars notched a 2-0 win over Biola before tying Point Loma 1-1.