NORTHRIDGE, Calif. - UC Riverside's offense knocked on the door throughout the night, but a late goal from CSUN was the difference as UCR fell 1-0 on Thursday evening at Matador Soccer Field. 

The Highlanders took advantage of their early chances, winning two corners and notching a shot in the first 10 minutes. Natza Marin laid claim to UCR's first attempt, sailing a shot over the goal in the eighth minute. 

Akari Shimizu made her fourth start of the year and first since September 23, going for goal in the 16th minute from inside the 18-yard box. Shimizu's attempt was saved in the middle of the goal. 

Two shots in as many minutes put the Matadors on their heels. Lindsey Turner's attempt in the 33rd minute was wide before Daphane Mendez had an attempt from the top of the box blocked in the 35th minute. 

UC Riverside held the Matadors to just two shots in the opening 45 minutes and without a shot for the final 29 as both teams went into halftime scoreless.

Shimizu opened the second half with her second shot on goal of the night, aiming for the lower middle of the goal mouth in the 49th minute.

Back-to-back shots from Marin and Alex Hargrave kept the pedal on for UCR's offense, as Marin's attempt in the 56th minute was blocked. UCR did well to break through the CSUN defense, as four of UC Riverside's seven shots had come from inside the 18-yard box through 60 minutes.

CSUN broke the deadlock late in the 84th minute on a one-on-one with Caela Kaio in front of the Highlander net. 

Leigh Polson's shot to the lower right side of the goal in the 86th minute ensured UCR's fifth 10-shot performance of the season and third in the last four outings. 

The Highlanders are back in action on Thursday, October 21 with a 7:00 p.m. kickoff at UC San Diego. Live stats will be available on ucsdtritons.com and the match will be broadcast on ESPN+.