LOS ANGELES — Occidental College fell to Chapman University 1-0 on Saturday at W.C. Patterson Field at Jack Kemp Stadium. Despite the home team's six shots on goal, Chapman secured the win with a first-half goal. Occidental's goalkeeper made five saves, including four in the first half, but the Panthers' defense held firm for the shutout.

The first half began with Occidental establishing an aggressive approach, highlighted by early attempts from Alessia Sacchi and Allison Bello, both testing Chapman's goalkeeper, Bella Barretto. Melanie Rodriguez was active in goal for the Tigers, making crucial saves against Pilar Vanheusden and Delaney Kitchens to keep the match even through much of the opening minutes.

Despite Occidental's efforts, Chapman broke the deadlock in the 20th minute with a goal by Jenna Urrabazo, assisted by Karys McKinney. The Tigers continued to press forward, with Mia Steadman and Samantha An forcing further saves from Barretto. The half closed with Chapman maintaining a 1-0 lead, despite numerous attempts by Occidental to level the score.

The second half began with Occidental seeking to overturn a one-goal deficit against the Panthers. The home side saw Melanie Rodriguez make a crucial save in the 69th minute, denying a shot from Nikki Zokaei and keeping the team in contention. Mia Steadman and Sacchi each challenged Chapman's goalkeeper Barretto with shots on goal, but Barretto maintained the visitor's defensive stance with key saves.

The Tigers continued to press for an equalizer, with Allison Bello and Steadman attempting late efforts that went over the top. Despite their attacks and a solid defensive effort, the home team was unable to find the back of the net. The half closed with Chapman holding onto their narrow 1-0 lead.

Occidental Top Performers

Melanie Rodriguez  
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- five saves  

Alessia Sacchi  
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- three shots  
- two shots on goal  

Malia Steadman  
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- three shots  
- two shots on goal  

Occidental holds a 5-5-2 overall record and a 4-4-1 mark in conference play. Chapman improves to 7-5-3 overall and 4-3-2 in the conference.