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COSTA MESA, Calif.- The NAIA No. 5 ranked Sea Lions still boast an unblemished record after defeating the Vanguard Lions 2-1 in overtime Wednesday. The golden goal was scored in minute 94 by Loma defender Jessica Van Loo, keeping the Sea Lions in the number one spot in the Golden State Athletic Conference.
 
The Lions scored first in minute 11, though, a shot into the lower right corner of the net made by Vanguard midfielder Lauren Skachenko off an assist from forward Gabriella Valles. Sea Lions goalie Tiffany Kracy just could not get there in time and the ball slipped by.
 
Both teams ended the first half of the game with an even four shots and it seemed like the heat of the day may really be getting to them.
 
"It was a very hot day here," said PLNU Coach Tim Hall. "It was a real test of wills. We gave up a goal so soon, which made it tough. But the girls got stronger as the game when on."
 
Loma midfielder Carleigh Salassi finally answered the Lions with an unassisted goal in minute 56. The ball rebounded off of Vanguard's goalkeeper Lauren Terry and Salassi kicked it into the bottom right corner of the net, tying up the game and giving herself goal number three for the season.
 
Both keepers turned back three opponent shots on goal, thus keeping the game tied and pushing it into overtime.
 
The pressure turned up a notch in overtime. The first team to score wins and a tie was also a possibility.
 
Four minutes in Sea Lion midfielder Kallie Caldwell got a free kick opportunity and fired the ball towards the net, a perfect assist for defender Jessica Van Loo who got there at just the right time, heading the ball deep into the lower right corner of the net and giving her team the victory. The game-winner was her first goal of the season.
 
"We didn't play as well as we have in the past but the will to win today was incredible," said Hall. "They have heart and find ways to get it done. The girls are committed to fitness and it paid off. To come from behind on the road against a good team like that is very impressive."
 
The hard work for victory bumps Point Loma's overall record up to 12-0-1 and GSAC record to 4-0, keeping them in first place. It was the Sea Lion's seventh-consecutive victory.
 
Loma will again be on the road on Saturday, October 15, for their fifth GSAC battle of the year. They play at The Master's College against the Mustangs beginning at noon.