Aug. 30, 2002

CHICO, Calif. - Amy Swanson scored the game's only goal in the 84th minute as host Chico State University defeated Western Washington University, 1-0, on Friday in the opening round of the West Coast Classic. It was the season opener for both schools.

Chico State had a 14-6 advantage in shots and a 7-2 edge in corner kicks. "We had some good opportunities, but we gave up too many defensive corner kicks," said Western coach Railene Thorson.

Swanson's game-winning shot came from beyond the box on the left side, Katie Ferchland getting an assist. Wildcat goalkeeper Angela Orr had four saves in picking up the shutout.

The Vikings have not won an opener since 1997. Last year, they had 17 of their 20 games decided by one goal, finishing 9-10-1.

Western meets San Francisco State University in tourney action Saturday (7:30 p.m.), then completes its three-game Northern California road swing at Sonoma State on Tuesday (3 p.m.).