Nov. 17, 2002

Box Score

LOS ANGELES - Bruin defender Kendal Billingsley's golden goal in double-overtime lifted No. 7-seeded UCLA to a thrilling 1-0 victory over cross-town rival USC in the second round of the NCAA Women's Soccer Championships at Drake Stadium Sunday. With the victory, UCLA (18-3) moves on to face Texas A&M (19-4-1) next Saturday in the round of 16. The Aggies defeated SMU on penalty kicks earlier today.

The official time of Billingsley's goal was 103:18 of the second overtime period. Following a UCLA corner kick, the ball was cleared and kicked out to Bruin defender Nandi Pryce. Pryce made a run down the right sideline, driving a low ball into the box where it was flicked on by Bruin forward Crystal James. Billingsley was able to get a foot on it and slip it past USC goalkeeper Julie Peterson for the game-ending goal.

"I'm extremely pleased that we got it done today," said UCLA head coach Jillian Ellis. It was a very frustrating game. We are relieved and excited to move on. I think the matchup with Texas A&M will be a good one. They are a very athletic team and it should be an exciting game to watch."

UCLA, which won its ninth-consecutive victory Sunday, dictated much of the play, outshooting the Women of Troy, 22-2. With the win, the Bruins improve to 11-2-1 all time against USC.

"I'm really proud of the effort our girls gave," said USC head coach Jim Millinder. We had a great season. (UCLA) is an outstanding soccer team. Our kids gave everything they had and I can't ask for anything more."

Next Saturday's round of 16 match will begin at 7:00 p.m. at UCLA's Drake Stadium.