Records entering the game: Topping the charts in Big Sky soccer, Portland State (10-6-2, 4-1-1 Big Sky) is the only team in the conference to have already secured a place in the postseason, with today’s game still left to play.
With a win, the Viks would clinch the conference title and host the Big Sky championship. With a draw, they could still take the conference if second-placed Northern Arizona draws or loses its final game against Northern Colorado.
Sacramento State (8-5-4, 3-2-1 Big Sky) needs a win today to qualify for the postseason. If they fail to get three points for a win, the Hornets will have to rely on favorable results elsewhere in the conference to make it through.
Last year’s meeting: A double-overtime stalemate that ended at 0-0. Portland State looks to avoid repeating the outcome of last year’s match that caused them to miss out on hosting the championship. As a result, the Viks had to be content with the No. 2 seed going into the postseason.
Scouting the Hornets: Sacramento State is tied for third in the conference. They come into the game on a winning note after last weekend’s 2-0 victory over Idaho State.
“They have a couple of dynamic and attacking players, but hopefully we will be able to neutralize them,” said head coach Laura Schott.
Scouting the Vikings: Portland State has the momentum going into their final regular season match after three consecutive conference wins. The Vikings are on a four-match unbeaten streak and have netted six goals in their last two games.
“We have a very motivated group of players,” Schott said. “And we will be up for the game even though we have qualified for the tournament.”
Big Sky Standings
1. Portland St., 13 pts.
2. N. Arizona, 12 pts.
t3. Sacramento St., 10 pts.
t3. E. Washington, 10 pts.
Win=3 pts. Tie=1 pt.