TURLOCK — One of the nation's best defenses proved itself once again Friday, as the Stanislaus State women's soccer team posted its third straight shutout, seventh in its last eight games, and ninth shutout of the year in a 1-0 California Collegiate Athletic Association victory over Cal State San Marcos at Warrior Stadium.
 
The Warriors (6-4-3, 3-1-3 CCAA) have only allowed seven total goals in 13 games this year. They entered the weekend ranked among the country's top-20 in save percentage (5th), shutout percentage (9th) and goals against average (18th) – all categories in which they're either No. 1 or 2 in the CCAA.
 
"It was great to come away with a victory against a very tough opponent," said Stanislaus State head coach Gabriel Bolton. "We really raised our level of play in the second half. We were very well organized defensively the entire match. Amanda (Leal) made an amazing save in the final seconds of the match to preserve the shutout and win. She's a big-game performer."
 
Leal continues to have one of the greatest seasons in program history by a goalkeeper. Her ninth shutout of the season tied her for fourth all-time in a single season at Stanislaus State. Her current 0.51 GAA would be the best all-time in a season, as would her .899 saves percentage.
 
The Warriors got the only goal they needed in the 54th minute on a fluke play from Jenna Zuniga. The defender settled the ball just inside the midline, took her time, and launched a long service ball towards the front of the box. A Stan State forward and a CSUSM defender both leaped up to head the ball, but they missed. Instead, it bounced inside the box, and when Cougars goalkeeper Allison Marcure came out to grab the ball, it went right between her legs and rolled into the net for an unassisted goal to Zuniga and a 1-0 advantage for Stanislaus State.
 
"We got more dangerous and dynamic as the game went along," added Bolton. "We got a bit fortunate on the goal but I'm a firm believer you create your own luck."
 
The Warriors will honor 14 seniors Sunday playing in their final regular season game at Warrior Stadium. The ceremony will proceed the team's 11:30 a.m. kickoff against Cal State San Bernardino. Fans can purchase tickets and find all live coverage links on WarriorAthletics.com.