Lions move on to quarters

ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — Vanguard University junior Rayven Hernandez scored in the 78th minute on Monday to propel the No. 7-ranked Lions into Wednesday’s quarterfinals at the NAIA women’s soccer championship at the Orange Beach Sportsplex.

Hernandez directed a cross from Danyelle Allen past the goalkeeper for the difference in the 1-0 win over No. 2-ranked Martin Methodist of Tennessee.

The Lions (18-3) will meet No. 1-ranked and defending national champion Spring Arbor of Michigan (20-0-1) in the quarterfinals on Wednesday at 9 a.m. Pacific Time.

Hayley Magana made four saves to preserve the 16th shutout of the season for Vanguard, which has allowed just three goals in the last 19 games.

The victory avenged a 4-2 defeat at the hands of Martin Methodist (14-3-3) in the Lions’ season opener on Aug 24.

Hernandez had six shots to help Vanguard produce a 19-11 advantage in that department.

Vanguard will compete in only its second quarterfinal, matching the 2012 team that also won a school-record 18 games.

Spring Arbor defeated Cumberland of Tennessee, 4-0, in the round of 16 on Monday.

Bethany Belcer had two goals for Spring Arbor. Belcer has seven goals in her last three games and 29 for the season, ranking No. 5 in the nation in goals.

Spring Arbor has outscored opponents, 88-4, this season and has 17 shutouts.

The semifinals are scheduled for Friday, with the title game set for Saturday.

— From staff reports

— From staff reports