LA JOLLA -- Cal State LA's women's soccer team found the going tough Friday in its California Collegiate Athletic Association Championship Tournament semifinal against Sonoma State.

The No. 2 seed Golden Eagles never could get untracked against a smothering defense and fell to the No. 3 seeded Seawolves, 2-0, at Triton Soccer Stadium. Cal State LA (9-5-3) had earned a first-round bye after finishing percentage points ahead of Sonoma State (14-3-1), but the extra rest wasn't enough to help a banged-up squad.

Sonoma State scored a one goal in each half and did a masterful job of thwarting Cal State LA's offense, which featured the CCAA Most Valuable Offensive Player and CCAA Freshman of the Year Paulina Chaidez.

Cal State LA goalkeeper Adriana Maldonado had an outstanding performance, recording a career-high 16 saves to keep the Golden Eagles close.

Sonoma State had a 28-5 advantage in shots and a 6-4 edge in corner kicks.

Cal State LA also got some spirited efforts from Selena Cuara and Tatiana Zuvic, who both created some good chances for the Golden Eagles, especially in the second half when Cal State LA battled to get the equalizer.

The game was scoreless until the 41st minute when Sarah Lindborg headed in a shot from point-blank range after a cross from the left side. Cecilia Sifuentes and Ashley Von Tillow had the assists.

Cal State LA stayed within striking distance until the 75th minute when Sara Van Wagoner made it 2-0 with a long shot that nestled into the upper left corner of the net to make it 2-0/

The Golden Eagles continued to battle and very nearly scored late in the game when Victoria Arredondo had a beautiful chance while racing toward the goal, but her chance went wide.

Cal State LA was ranked sixth in the latest NCAA rankings and will await the announcement of the tournament field on Monday.