(HILO, Hawai'i) No. 4 seed Biola stunned No. 1 seed Point Loma in the PacWest Women's Soccer semifinals, winning by a 2-1 margin on Thursday afternoon.
Nikki Ross scored a penalty kick with 1:18 remaining in the second half to set up a frantic finish, but ultimately the Sea Lions were denied a three-peat as PacWest Tournament champions.
PLNU will now hope its season continues with an at-large berth into the NCAA West Regional.
Point Loma had beaten Biola twice already this season by a combined 6-0 scoreline, but the Eagles got on the board first with a long-range shot just 6:31 into the match.
The Sea Lions picked up their intensity from there, with
Madison Khan serving a couple dangerous crosses from the right flank.
Maddy Saruwatari wiggled free from her defender after collecting a throw-in on the left wing before her shot from outside the box was saved.
Grace Nelson had one effort blocked for a corner and then a long free kick saved, as the Sea Lions trailed by one at the half.
Point Loma continued to push forward after play resumed, before and after Biola's second goal in the 60th minute, outshooting the Eagles 9-2 after the break.
PLNU had a couple penalty shouts that were not given upon video review, while
Emma Naftzger forced a pair of stellar saves from the BU goalkeeper.
Ultimately, a third appeal for a penalty was awarded after
Priya Torres was taken down in the box. Ross then calmly stepped up and converted from the spot to make it interesting late.
The Sea Lions created several set piece opportunities throughout the second half, with Nelson serving the ball into dangerous positions, but were unable to find the ultimate tying goal in the rain despite its 14-5 shot advantage.
After completing an unbeaten conference regular season, the Sea Lions suffered their first loss to a PacWest opponent this year.
Point Loma (10-3-5 overall) was ranked No. 5 in the NCAA West Region NPI rankings going into the postseason.
Seven West Region teams will make the NCAA Tournament, with three automatic berths given to the PacWest, CCAA and GNAC tournament champions, and the remaining four spots awarded to at-larges.
POSTGAME PRESS CONFERENCE
