ORANGE, Calif. (Oct. 15, 2022) - Whittier tied Chapman, 0-0, on the road Saturday, thanks to an exceptional defensive effort that only allowed three shots on goal.

Poets goalkeeper senior Vanessa Martinez posted her fourth consecutive shutout and seventh of the season. She leads the SCIAC in shutouts (seven), save percentage (.870) and saves (67), is tied for most wins (7), and is tied for second in minutes played (1170:00).

"Vanessa is the best goalie I've ever played with, and I am so proud of her and all her hard work," said senior defender and team co-captain Alexis Huff. "She's an amazing teammate and captain."

The Poets' stingy defense permits just 0.77 goals per match, which ranks third in the conference.

"Our defense has been incredible," Huff said, pointing out the team's four consecutive shutouts.

Whittier had five chances on goal, compared to Chapman's three opportunities.

With the draw, the Poets are now 3-2-4 in conference, placing them in fourth place of nine SCIAC schools this season.

The Whittier women's next challenge comes on the road against Pomona-Pitzer Saturday, Oct. 22 at 2 p.m. The Sagehens remain atop the conference with a 6-0-3 SCIAC record. On Oct. 12, the teams drew, 0-0, in their first matchup of the season.

Photo: Tony Leon/ActionWestPhotography.com

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