The Monarchs start the season with a 3-0-1 mark using a balanced attack to stay undefeated.
By: JC Rosa, Staff Writer
The Valley College women’s soccer team took a three-game winning streak into Tuesday’s home contest against Santa Ana College that ended in a 1-1 tie.
The Monarchs remain undefeated thanks to a defense that allowed seven shots on goal with keeper Nina Diaz stopping six of those shots. The Monarch’s defense kept the ball on the edges, limiting the Dons’ time of possession.
“The mentality coming into the game was to control the middle of the field,” said Monarch midfielder Amanda Rumack. “I figured if we could shut down the middle that would help us out a lot.”
On the offensive side, Valley took six shots on goal, with forward Desiree Monge converting in the 36 minute, giving the Monarchs a 1-0 lead.
The Dons tied the game in the 45 minute when Karen Juarez scored on an assist from Tiffany Rodriguez.
“We hold each other accountable,” said Monge. “When we make mistakes we try to fix it, together, as a team.”
In the team’s first three games, Valley dispatched City College, Victor Valley and Imperial Valley colleges. The team scored nine goals while only giving up four across the first three matches.
“This team is a gritty group who all fight for every minute on the pitch,” said Head Coach Jonathan Hoarst. “At the end of the day, you need a group that’s going to go out there and fight for each other, and fortunately, that’s what I have this year.”
In their first game against City College, the Monarchs took control early, scoring 2 goals in the first 20 minutes of the contest. Early in the second half, Valley capitalized on their momentum, scoring a goal in the 51 minute of the game. On the defensive end, the Monarchs shut down City College’s offense, allowing only one goal, making the final score 3-1.
Against Victor Valley, the Monarchs won a close contest 2-1. The match was marked by a strong defensive effort from freshman goalkeeper Diaz, who saved 13 of the 14 shots on goal.
“I just like to be there for my teammates,” said Diaz. “I don’t want to let anyone down. I want to show that I’m here to work hard and show it on the field.”
In their match against Imperial Valley, the Monarchs showcased their offense. The team’s attacking line was effective, as their four goals were scored by three different players, with two of the goals coming off assists. The Monarchs ended the game with 4-2 win.
The undefeated Monarchs will host Oxnard College at home tomorrow with a 4 p.m. start.
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