SAN BERNARDINO -- Cal State L.A.'s women's soccer team used a strong defensive effort and a pair of first-half goals to an important California Collegiate Athletic Association win over nationally-ranked Cal State San Bernardino.

The Golden Eagles took control of the game with a dominating first-half performance and went on to blank the No. 8 Coyotes, 2-0, Sunday at Coyote Premier Field. Cal State L.A. (9-1-1, 4-0 CCAA) remained unbeaten in conference play while handing Cal State San Bernardino (9-2, 2-2 CCAA) its second straight loss.

With the victory, Cal State L.A. moved into sole possession of first place in the CCAA.

Cal State L.A. started strongly and had a 13-1 advantage in shots in the opening half. The Golden Eagles finished the game with a 19-7 edge in shots, including a 10-3 advantage in shots on goal.

Heather Williams and Joanna Espinoza scored the Cal State L.A. goals in a seven-minute span of the opening half. The Golden Eagles' defense took it from there and recorded its sixth shutout of the season. Yi Du made three saves in goal for the Golden Eagles.

Williams opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with her second goal of the season and second in as many games. She was able to collect a cross from Norie Pablo and one-time a shot into the net. It was Pablo's third assist of the season.

Espinoza made it 2-0 in the 30th minute. She was able to get the ball in the middle of the box and knock in a shot from about five yards out. The goal was Espinoza's fifth goal of the season. Williams picked up the assist, her fourth of the season.

Cal State San Bernardino was able to generate some pressure early in the second half, but Cal State L.A.'s defense was stout throughout.

Cal State L.A. and Cal State San Bernardino each had six shots in the second half.

Cal State L.A. will return to action on Friday with a home game against Cal State Monterey Bay at 7 p.m.