SAN MARCOS, Calif. — Vanessa Penuna's penalty kick in the 67th minute was the difference as San Francisco State defeated Cal State San Marcos 1-0 on Sunday in CCAA action.

After a scoreless first half, the Gators' goal came after both teams had scoring opportunities early in the second half. Madison Messier's shot following a corner kick was blocked, then two minutes later the Cougars had a shot off of a corner kick blocked. Bailey Cockrill was whistled for her first of two yellow cards on the day in the 67th minute. That set up a penalty kick for the Gators and Penuna delivered with her second goal of the season.

"It was a tough, gritty battle but our team was disciplined in trying to play our game," said SF State Head Coach Tracy Hamm. "Our defense was solid again and Christina Holguin had a fantastic game and a well-earned shutout."

Holguin recorded her sixth win of the season and tallied her fifth shutout. The senior goalkeeper entered the week fourth in NCAA Division II in goals against average (.151) and save percentage (.958). As a team, the Gators entered the week 10th in NCAA Division II in goals against average (.385) and shutouts (.7).

"We had great composure in the final third and were able to capitalize on a penalty, which would likely have resulted in a goal anyway," said Hamm. "Today was another quality team performance and our depth played a major impact in our success."

The Gators (8-3-1/3-2-1 CCAA) closed the gap on the Cougars (6-6-0/4-4-0 CCAA) with the victory. At the halfway point of the conference schedule, SF State is eyeing a postseason berth but still has to face four teams currently ahead in the standings. Next up is a road trip to Cal State Dominguez Hills (3-7-0/2-4-0 CCAA). The two teams will face off on Friday, Oct. 13 at 4:30 p.m. The Gators return home on Friday, Oct. 20 at noon. The first 250 students at that day's doubleheader will receive a free SF State soccer scarf.