Stockton, Calif. - Backed by sturdy defense and an aggressive attack, the Pacific field hockey team rallied past California, 3-2 in a NorPac Conference game on Saturday, October 20.

The Tigers improved to 4-10 on the season and 3-2 in conference play, while the Bears dropped to 9-5 overall and 4-1 in the NorPac.

Both teams played back and forth to open the game until a goal by the reigning NorPac Conference Offensive Player of the Week, Jennifer Crane sparked the Cal offense. Natalie York added another goal to put the Bears up 2-0 over the Tigers.

The Tigers responded with a goal from senior defender Katie Fixsen (Vista, Calif.) as she put in a ball that was deflected back by Cal's goalkeeper Kelly Knoche. Fixsen's goal in the final two minutes brought the Tigers within to 2-1 at the break.

The rally continued in the second half as Junior Kedibone Leubane (Capetown, South Africa) intercepted a pass at the top of the circle and instantly re-directed it into the goal. Leubane's goal pulled the Tigers to an even 2-2 with Cal.

After a timeout by the Bears, the Tigers came out of the huddle anxious to strike again. In the final ten minutes, Leubane picked off another pass and scored her second goal to give the Tigers the lead.

Cal had an 8-2 penalty corner advantage over the Tigers including an opportunity to tie the game with time expired, but the Tigers rejected the shot.

Freshman goalkeeper Lauren Woods (Oceanside, Calif.) had three saves for the Tigers in the victory.

"There was a strong effort from every single individual and good things happen when you play all out for 70 minutes," said Head Coach Linda MacDonald.

In front of 200 fans, the Tigers honored their five seniors before the game: Valerie Niles (San Jose, Calif.), Elle Busch (San Jose, Calif.), Katie Fixsen (Vista, Calif.), Melody Demel (Fallbrook, Calif.) and Team Manager Kara Raynor (San Diego, Calif).

The Tigers will be back in action on Oct. 30, against Appalachian State. Game time is scheduled for 5:30 pm. PT.