DENVER – In Head Coach Katie Hooker's first match at the helm of the MSU Denver women's soccer, the Roadrunners played a resilient game on the pitch, earning a 1-1 draw against Western Washington on Thursday night at the Assembly Athletic Complex Center. 

After a scoreless first half, the Roadrunners broke through in the 57th minute. Jenelle Arenibas netted the first Roadrunners goal of the season off a clean setup from Madrid Mack, sending the home crowd of 250 into celebration.

Western Washington, ranked among the nation's top Division II programs in recent years, equalized in the 79th minute when Claire Potter scored on an assist from Morgan Manalili.

MSU Denver goalkeeper Kayla Caballero was sharp all evening, recording four saves to keep the Vikings in check. The Roadrunners held firm defensively despite being outshot 6-4 and not earning a corner kick, frustrating a WWU side that tallied seven corners and applied pressure throughout.

Arenibas, Mack, and Isa Durkin each recorded shots on goal for the Roadrunners, while Jaslyn Sanders provided an energetic spark off the bench with a late chance.

The draw gives MSU Denver a 0-0-1 record to start the season. The Roadrunners continue non-conference play at home on Sunday afternoon against Western Oregon at 12 p.m. MT.