AZUSA, Calif. – The University of California, Merced women's soccer team posted its third consecutive shutout and remained unbeaten after battling to a 0-0 draw with Azusa Pacific on Wednesday night.

With the result, the Bobcats (3-0-3) are currently one of three unbeaten women's soccer teams in the NCAA Division II West Region through six matches. This year marks the fourth time in program history being unbeaten heading into game seven.

Alicia Lepe earned her CCAA leading fifth shutout of the season with a career-high tying six saves. Also of note, Lepe is tied for first in the country with five clean sheets. She made a diving save midway through the second half.

APU outshot the Bobcats 14-10, but UC Merced's defense put together a strong effort protecting Lepe with the majority of the Cougars shots coming from outside the 18-yard box. 

Defenders Hannah DeLay, Preeya Singh, Macy Max, and Katy Flores played the full 90 minutes for the Bobcats. DeLay and Max cleared two APU threats in the final 90 seconds to preserve the shutout.

The Bobcats offense took ten shots, putting three on frame. Lexi Wright held match-high with four shots, including two on target.

Wright was also creating scoring chances for teammates and made things tough on APU early in the second half taking a corner kick and a free kick in the Bobcats attacking third within the first five minutes. Wright's set pieces were direct results of Trinidad Quiroz being fouled.

Quiroz recorded two shots overall. Jackie Tamayo and Jariah Indalecio put pressure on the Cougars with a couple scoring opportunities.

The match saw 23 fouls called, 12 whistled against APU.

Up next, UC Merced will play at Stanislaus State in a nonconference showdown for the Cowbell Cup on Sunday, September 28. First touch is scheduled for 6:00pm at Warrior Stadium in Turlock, Calif.