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IRVINE, Calif. — No. 5 seed Cal State Bakersfield knocked off The Big West's defending champion with a a 1-0 victory over No. 4 seed and host UC Irvine on Sunday at Anteater Stadium.

Making their first appearance in the Big West women's soccer postseason, the win marks a milestone for the Roadrunners who move to 7-10-4 on the year and advance to take on top-seeded Hawai'i in the semifinal round on Thursday, Nov. 7 at 9 p.m. PT/7 p.m. HT from Waipi'o Peninsula Soccer Stadium on O'ahu. Previously, UC Irvine had won the last three iterations of the Big West Championship. The Anteaters cap the season at 6-7-6.

The contest saw the Roadrunners' defense hold firm, with junior goalkeeper Kamy Anaya shining bright with eight saves in the shutout.

Junior defender Anela Nigito contributed offensively with one assist, creating the scoring opportunity for freshman midfielder Isis Salazar-Ortega. The game-winning strike came just before the half in the 44th minute off set piece near midfield resulted in the goal from six yards out and past UCI goalkeeper Ashley Naylor.

All-Big West first-teamer Emilie Castagna led the Anteaters with five total shots, including one shot on goal and a strong attempt with under four minutes to play that went wide of the mark.

Cal State Bakersfield's Paige Rodriguez had the opportunity to ice the game from the penalty spot in the 83rd minute, but missed wide left. UCI pushed hard in the closing minutes but Anaya maintained composure in goal to secure the win for the visitors and earn a trip to Hawai'i for the semifinal round.