The Matadors return to Northridge this weekend to kick off the home portion of their Big West Conference season. They dropped their first two conference games last week, losing 3-0 to UCSB, and 1-0 to Cal Poly in a last-second heartbreaker. Visiting Matador Soccer Field will be UC Davis and Pacific Friday and Sunday respectively. The Aggies, like CSUN, have been in a bit of a slump lately. They are losers of three of their last four games, and rank No. 8 in goals in the Big West. In contrast, the Tigers are on a roll. They’re winners offive of their last six.

Matadors

Last Game: Loss (1-0) @ Cal Poly
Goals leader: Sophomore Farryn Townley (4)
Assists leader: Senior Kristal Phillips (4)

Matador to watch:
Leah Elliot, sophomore, goalkeeper

Not enough can be said about Elliot, who was forced into the starting role this season due to injuries. Her 76 stops puts her at No. 2 for total saves in the conference. She had a career-high 14 in last Sunday’s loss to Cal Poly.

Matadors vs. UC Davis Aggies
Thursday at 2:30 p.m.

Series Record: Aggies lead 3-2
Last meeting: Aggies 2, Matadors 1 (2007)

Aggie to watch:
Sarah Peters, sophomore, goalkeeper

Peters ranks among the Big West leaders in important goalkeeping categories. Her 1.01 goals -against average is third-best, as is her three shutouts. She ranks near the bottom in saves, however, so if the Matadors can get good looks, they may be able to break through.

Matadors vs. Pacific Tigers
Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

Series Record: Tied at 4-4-1
Last Meeting: Tigers 2, Matadors 1 OT (2007)

Tiger to Watch:
Kristina Wavomba, freshman, forward

The freshman has been a dominant offensive force in the Big West. Her seven goals is tops in the conference, and she does it efficiently. She has only taken 11 shots on goal, and 19 total, meaning she scores on more than one-third of her attempts. She has also been credited with two game-winning goals.

What did he say?

Keith West, Head Coach on returning back home for conference play:

‘It’s great to be back, the road is always very tough. It’s always important to win at home, but it’s more important in conference play. We have play our game and keep improving so we can come out on top.’