Penn State is preparing to maintain its winning streak against California and Stanford

After their recent victory, Penn State is gearing up to extend its winning streak against the University of California.

“It’s an exciting weekend,” remarked Penn State head coach Lisa Bervinchak-Love. “I believe this team will put in the effort and meet the challenge head-on.”

As for California, the Bears are coming off a three-game losing streak. In the previous season, the University of California excelled in defense, preventing 97 goals with opponents only managing a .635 shots on goal percentage. However, their offensive performance was lacking, with only 28 goals scored out of 168 shots, resulting in a 4-11 record.

In contrast, Penn State netted a total of 61 goals last season while restricting opponents to just 24 goals scored.

The key returning player for the blue and gold will be senior forward Kiki de Bruijne, who netted eight goals last season.

Sophia Gladieux, Penn State’s leading scorer from the previous season with 23 goals, seven of which were game-winners, will be competing with de Bruijne for goals in this match.

The last encounter between these two teams took place in 2019, with the Nittany Lions falling to California in overtime. California equalized the game from a penalty corner four minutes into the final period and eventually secured a 4-3 victory in overtime. Both of Penn State’s losses to California occurred in overtime, providing an opportunity for redemption in this upcoming game.

Stanford Two days later, Penn State will go head-to-head with Stanford University, marking only the second meeting between these teams, with the previous one dating back to 2009.

During their previous encounter in 2009, the blue and white secured a 3-1 victory in a home game.

Stanford finished the previous year with a 10-9 record. Their top scorer from last season, Haley Mossmer, recorded a total of 23 points and is returning this year as a senior to face the Nittany Lions.

Keeper Kendall Dowd, who played only 65 minutes but made a significant impact by facing 17 shots and allowing just two goals during her freshman year, is back as a sophomore and ready to face Penn State.

Stanford is also coming off a recent losing streak, providing hope for a successful weekend for Penn State.