SANTA ANA - The Dons gave up an early goal after a fluke play in the box and that proved to be the difference maker in their 1-0 loss to MiraCosta College in a non-conference match.

The game's lone goal came in the seventh minute when, following an injury, the Dons goalkeeper was attempting to kick the ball back to the MiraCosta in a sign of good sportsmanship. However, the ball slipped out of her hands and she was called for a foul. The Spartans took advantage of the error when Makaela Thompson fired a quick shot after Sandra Morales' touch for the game-winning goal.

Priscilla Suarez turned away the other three shots she faced for the Dons while her counterpart, Sarah Hinkel, made six saves for the shut out win.

The Dons close out non-conference competition in their next game when they travel to Palomar College on September 13.