Cal State Northridge finished 1-5 last year in the Gold Coast Women's Rugby Conference, and in one week this season the Matadors have equaled their win total from 2017. 

Northridge took down Arizona 45-34 on Saturday in Tucson, AZ, to win its opening conference game — and this was a UA team that shut out the Matadors 32-0 a year ago.

"This match was a nail-biter!" CSUN head coach Christina Alatorre said. "This was one that was played to the last second by both teams."

Northridge dominated the first half, leading 33-5 into the break. Center Erica Magee and flyhalf Viv Garcia work nicely together and linked for two tries each. 

"They read the space and were in support," Alatorre said. "Erica was able to break through tackles. Viv read the space and was able to get the passes out and set smart plays."

Rookie Rachel Fox also touched down, and Genesis Elizararras converted four of the five tries.

"Our forwards and backs worked very well together in breaking the gain line and moving the ball down the field," Alatorre said.

However, Arizona made some key substitutions and surged back. One of those subs, Laura Kujawski scored two tries during the comeback. Hooker Judith Gramajo scored one and center Tatum Hale touched down twice, with fullback Ashlyn Daniels converting twice. (Jacqueline Rodriguez scored Arizona's lone try in the first half).

But Northridge kept ahead, in part thanks to a crucial late try from Elizarraras.

Alatorre praised the Wildcats' Gramajo, who played her hooker role well and was an effective open-field runner. Hale was also strong, finding space in the CSUN defense.

"We were able finally to adjust and hold them in the last four minutes," Alatorre said. "In the last few seconds we were able to gain possession and score the final try."

Alyah Thomas did the honors.

"Our theme for the weekend was 15 as one," the coach said. "We have very great leadership on our team this year. Our vets are leading by example on and off the field. Our coaching staff and CSUN alumni are very proud of how far this season's team has come."