The match was the Hornets’ Big Sky opener and first of a four-game homestand. Sacramento State is now 3-6-3 in 2005 and 0-0-1 in conference play. The Eagles are 3-7-3 and 1-0-1 in the Big Sky.

After Eastern Washington took advantage in the second minute of the match on a an 18-yard shot to he far post from Kerstyn Dolack, the Hornets responded in the 34th minute with Howard’s header off a free kick.

Senior Marissa Condren took the kick 35-yards out from goal and swung it into the box, where Howard headed it into the upper corner past Eastern Washington goalkeeper Tiera Como.

It was Condren’s first assist on the year and third of her career.

Sacramento State had the best of the scoring opportunities in the match, but neither team found the golden goal after two periods of overtime. The Hornets outshot the Eagles 18-9 and sophomore forward Tiffany Fraser recorded two shots on goal, forcing Como to make an acrobatic save over the crossbar as the first half came to a close. With minutes left in regulation, Fraser also just came up short on reaching the end of a cross at the far post from junior Maggie Murphy.

Sophomore Katie McCoy and Murphy also recorded two shots on goal apiece, forcing Como to make a match-high seven saves. McCoy, a La Mesa, Calif., native had her best opportunity in the 52nd minute, but was stopped by Como in a one v. one situation.

Freshman goalkeeper Jenny Lawrence made two saves during the match and Sacramento State had a 7-4 corner kick advantage.

The Hornets will continue their Big Sky opening weekend at noon on Sunday against Montana.