The NCAA tournament is just two wins away for Idaho.
The Vandal soccer team made a substantial leap for the program as a whole with its first WAC tournament victory in history, defeating San Jose State 2-1 Thursday in Fresno, Calif.
The Vandals play Utah State in the semi-finals Friday, with the winner competing for the conference championship Sunday.
Junior Amber Pimley netted both Vandal goals, her only scores of the season.
“We were more attack-minded today,” Pimley said. “When we were playing Pete (Showler) told us to be more attack-minded, and make the other team have to worry about us.”
San Jose State struck first in the 21st minute, putting in a goal from a crossed ball into the box. It took only 20 seconds for Pimley to answer. The Vandals have struggled this season to escape early deficits, but the conference tournament created a sense of urgency.
“After that goal, we felt like because it was the tournament we needed to give it all,” Pimley said. “It was really crucial to get back in the game. It was important to get the momentum back.”
The eventual game-winner came shortly before the second half when Pimley took a throw-in and sent a volley from 30 yards out over the goalkeeper’s reach.
“I was in the right place at the right time,” she said.
Coach Pete Showler made great use of his bench, playing 16 different Vandals during the 90-minute contest.
“(Showler) told us everyone needed to be on their toes and ready to go,” said freshman defender Emily Ngan. “Everyone plays a big part in today’s match. Whether you start or you’re on the bench you need to be ready.”
The Vandals kick off against Utah State at noon Friday. The Vandals fell to Utah State 3-0 the last time the two teams met.
“It’s definitely revenge,” Pimley said. “We have a lot of pride for this game definitely coming up.”