ROCKLIN, Calif. - In an unlikely January opening day for Jessup Soccer, the Warriors hosted the Sunbirds of Fresno Pacific for the inaugural game of coach David Nolan's tenure. After 87-plus minutes of stout defense, Jessup finally surrendered the lone goal of a 1-0 defeat.
 
"The effort from each player today was fantastic. Before the game, we spoke about being the best at the controlables like our effort, communication, and desire, and I feel the ladies touched on all of those things today," said Nolan postgame.  
 
"We have worked hard over the past four-to-five months, and to have the chance to implement these ideas in a game is so refreshing. We now have a game under our belt and a better feel for what we need to focus on going into our next contest."
 
Playing a strong game in goal Monday was senior Emma Whigam. Starting and playing all 90 minutes, Whigam recorded six saves, none more significant than a dive to her right to deny a breakaway attempt midway through the second half. 
 
On the day, the Warriors had three shot attempts, none of which came on goal. In the opening 45 minutes, freshman Adalin Faria had a good look, sending a shot in that missed too high. An attempt by senior Madison Leonhardt in the second half missed high as well. 
 
The lone goal Monday came with just over two minutes to play in regulation. Jessup thwarted away the first scoring opportunity on a counter-attack before Alexis Macias of the Sunbirds regrouped the ball to find the inside of the net.  
 
It was a long-awaited return to the field for Jessup Women's Soccer. The Warriors were playing in their first game since November 2, 2019. All total, Monday marked the end of a 450-day streak of no soccer for the Warriors. 
 
"For most of the team, it's been over a year since they played a competitive game," added Nolan. "The excitement was there to get out and try to recreate our success from practice into a game."
 
Monday also served as the first game under new Head Coach David Nolan, who ends a year-long streak of his own since he last coached in a competitive game. 
 
"It was a breath of fresh air to be back coaching a game. For me, it has been well over a year, and really this is what it's all about. Getting to work with my coaching staff in a game environment was something I was also very excited about."
 
As the schedule stands, Jessup's next contest will come on February 13, when the Warriors play host to Oregon Tech. This will be the second of what is currently four consecutive home matches for the Warriors. Game time is slated for 11 a.m.
   
William Jessup University is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), and the Golden State Athletic Conference (GSAC). For additional information regarding Jessup Athletics, visit www.jessupathletics.com; visit www.jessup.edu for more information on William Jessup University. Follow Jessup Athletics on social media: William Jessup University Athletics (Facebook) and @JessupAthletics (Twitter and Instagram).