IRVINE, Calif. – Senior Brandi Valdez slotted home the game's only goal in the 82nd minute, propelling Hope International to an important 1-0 win over Soka in GSAC women's soccer competition on Thursday at the OC Great Park.

Valdez, who notched her fourth goal of the season, solidified HIU's fourth place spot in the standings. With 19 points, the Royals lead La Sierra, Life Pacific and OUAZ by seven in the standings. The top four teams in the final regular season standings qualify for the GSAC Tournament.

HIU has three games remaining. La Sierra and OUAZ cannot catch HIU in the standings. Life Pacific can get to 21 points by virtue of winning its final three games.

The Royals avenged a 2-0 loss to the Lions on September 24 with lockdown defense and Valdez's heroics.

Kalia Lanoza – perched on the right flank – delivered a cross that took several bounces before finding Valdez on the left side of the box. Valdez settled the ball, and poked a shot between two Lion defenders with her left foot. Soka goalkeeper Mackinzie Stenstrom dove but missed the roller as it trickled into the right corner of the net.

Lanoza was credited with her third assist of the season.

HIU controlled the possession in a mostly uneventful first half. The Royals did not allow a shot as the teams were scoreless at halftime.

Soka (7-3-5, 6-3-2 GSAC) outshot HIU 5-4 in the second half with midfielder Mallorie Barteau accounting for four attempts. HIU goalie Victoria Ruiz saved one of Barteau's offerings, and made another stop with 25 seconds remaining on a Anahi Aranda shot.

Ruiz posted her fourth solo shutout and finished with two saves. 

The Royals have not allowed a goal in the last 289 minutes, eight seconds. 

HIU (9-5-1, 6-3-1, GSAC) has won all nine of its games this season by shutout.

The Royals continue their hopeful march to the postseason with a Saturday contest at The Master's. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:00 p.m.