STOCKTON, Calif. - No. 13 Stanford captured its first tournament championship since 2012, blanking Pacific 1-0 on Sunday afternoon to claim its first America East title.
The Cardinal (14-5), which extended its winning streak to seven, will be making its third straight NCAA Tournament appearance and 15th overall when first round play gets underway next weekend. NCAA selections will be announced late Sunday night.
Jordan Barry scored the game's only goal at the 15:18 mark of the first period, tipping in a rebound following an assist from Nina Randolph off of a penalty corner. Stanford controlled the game offensively, holding edges in shots (11-5) and penalty corners (7-5). Jessica Welch ripped off a game-best four shot attempts.
"At this stage in the season both teams know each others strengths and weaknesses," stated head coach Tara Danielson, "Postseason is about rising to the challenge, which Stanford did today. Hats off to Pacific for a great match, but I am especially proud of the team effort and how this team has built all season to this moment in our constant learning and growing as a unit."
Kelsey Bing notched her sixth shutout of the season, making two saves in the cage, though the Cardinal defense was styming on the second-highest scoring team in the NCAA allowing only five shots - one of the lowest outputs for the Tigers all season.
"How composed we remained while staying the course on our game plan under pressure shows how much this team has grown," continued Danielson "A championship atmosphere brings the energy to another level that Stanford showed its ability to bring a fifth gear to. Everyone rose up in this game and showcased that this entire team is one that anyone in any situation can step up in. It was great today to witness how west coast hockey and its programs are continuing to elevate the sport."
Stanford's last conference tournament title came back on Nov. 3, 2012, defeating Liberty to win the NorPac crown.
The Cardinal will await its NCAA opponent after the selection show Sunday night.