BELLINGHAM, WASH. -- Cal State LA's women's soccer team turned in a good showing against the defending national champions Saturday at Western Washington.

The Golden Eagles, ranked 22nd in the nation, put up a tremendous battle against the No. 1 Vikings before falling, 1-0, at Harrington Field. Cal State LA (1-1-1) played its third consecutive game against nationally-ranked team and suffered its first loss of the season. Western Washington (2-1) was playing its first home game of the season and made a triumphant return to the site of its 2022 national championship victory.

The Golden Eagles had an 11-5 advantage in shots and limited the Vikings to only one shot on goal. That shot, though, resulted in the only goal of the game. The scoring play started deep down the Golden Eagles' sideline after a foul. Western Washington's Morgan Manalli took the free kick and passed to the top of the box to Emily Rice. Her shot was deflected by the defense, but an onrushing Mie Cairns got to it first near the far post and knocked it in.

Cal State LA had a 6-2 advantage in shots in the opening half, but still trailed. The Golden Eagles had a 5-3 edge in the second half, but couldn't find the equalizer. Western Washington posted its second shutout in three games.

Jassmin Ortiz had a game-high three shots for the Golden Eagles, including one on goal. Miranda Navarro and Delia Bocanegra had two shots each.

After playing its first three games on the road, Cal State LA will make its 2023 home debut on Wednesday against Biola at 7 p.m.