The ISU women’s soccer team is heading to Malibu, Calif., this weekend — but not for a lackadaisical vacation under the sun. Instead, it looks to break its two-game losing streak against the No. 19 Pepperdine Waves on Friday before facing California-Santa Barbara on Sunday.

In its first meeting with Pepperdine, Iowa State (1-3) hopes to rebound from last weekend’s two-loss outing. The team feels that it put up a strong effort in its loss to South Carolina last Sunday.

“Our defense did really well last weekend,” freshman goalie Jo Haig said. “We’re getting to know each other better and how we play.”

Pepperdine (1-0-1) has yet to give up a goal this season. Iowa State has only managed to score two goals in four games, both in a 2-0 win over Drake.

Head coach Rebecca Hornbacher said that the team’s competitiveness will allow the Cyclones to bounce back from its losses.

“I don’t like to lose, and I know the team hates to lose,” Hornbacher said. “We’re competitive, and this is a great opportunity for us.”

In practice, Iowa State continues to work on its defensive and offensive production.

“Overall, we need to be able to be risk-takers,” Hornbacher said. “Obviously, we need to take more shots on goal and get more shots off.”

Hornbacher said that little mistakes need to be corrected to fine-tune the ISU defense.

By focusing on the little aspects such as clearing, the Cyclones hope to keep up with the Waves for the entire 90 minutes.

Pepperdine poses many challenges to Iowa State.

“Pepperdine is an extremely athletic, very skillful soccer team,” Hornbacher said. “They are going to be a strong opponent for us.”

The Cyclones will keep in mind their “four S’s” strategy Friday.

“If we play smart, simple, straight and strong, it will lead to success on the field,” assistant coach Ileana Moschos said.

“That’s what we need to gear toward.”