Cougar women's soccer got its season started on the right foot Tuesday, coasting to a 3-0 win over an undermanned San Diego Christian Squad.

While not quite as dominating as they could have been, the Cougar women were never tested on Wednesday, jumping out to an early lead and padding it in the second half.

Last year's leading goal scorer Taylor Ziencina tallied the season's first goal in the 19th minute.  Freshman Lauren Johnson made a run down the left side of the pitch, and fired a cross into the box.  Forward Katelyn Krauss went up with the keeper, getting a touch on the ball and knocking it in the direction of Ziencina, who finished with a volley into the back of the net.

CSUSM would strike early in the second half as well.  Taylor Schurman hit a pretty ball across the box, connecting with Brittany Boyce, who drove it past the helpless keeper.  The Cougars would add another insurance goal late, with Ashley Fugelsang finding a loose ball at the top of the box and driving it home.

"We're still working through some early season issues," commented Head Coach Ron Pulvers, "but the result today was good."

Pulvers also noted that the team's bench, particularly Clarissa Hidalgo, Ashley Fugelsang, and Schurman, were very good on Tuesday.  Freshman keeper Kaycee Gunion picked up her first shutout in her first collegiate game, making good decisions throughout and one very nice save in the second half.

The Cougar women will defend their 1-0 record at home on Friday, when they host Cal State Los Angeles.