It took two shutout losses before the Long Beach State women’s soccer team could both score its first goal and earn its first victory of the season.
Freshman midfielder Mimi Rangel accomplished both of those feats for the 49ers (1-2-0) Sunday as she secured the 3-2 victory over No. 23 Texas Tech (3-1-0) with a dramatic tie-breaking goal three seconds before the end of regulation.
The 49ers entered halftime still void of a goal on the season and trailing 1-0. But Rangel ended the scoreless streak 10 seconds into the second period with a game-tying goal on an assist by defender Marie McKenzie.
The game-winning kick by Rangel was precluded by a game-tying goal by senior Eileen Maes in the 87th minute.
Over two minutes later, as the regulation clock wound down to three seconds, senior Kristyn Benavidez passed the ball to Maes, who pushed it forward to Rangel to set up the game-winning shot from 12 yards out.
After opening the game strong and attacking TTU early, The Beach’s offense went idle. From there, LBSU struggled throughout the period, committing 11 fouls in the half while allowing a goal by midfielder Paige Strahan in the 34th minute.
Sunday’s game was also notable for notching several firsts. While handing the Red Raiders their first loss of the season, LBSU sophomore Kaci McCain started her first career game at goalkeeper while Rangel’s two goals were the first of her collegiate career.