True Warriors: Women’s Soccer Shuns Adversity in Win

It’s been a difficult week for the Westcliff women’s soccer team. Tuesday’s 2-1 win over Benedictine Mesa at the Great Park was the Warriors’ third contest in six days — with a seven-hour bus ride mixed in. It was unseasonably hot, their legs were tired, they tapped deep into the reserves. None of it mattered.

Marthe Engelstad beats the defense before scoring her second goal Tuesday at the Great Park. Photo by Brandon Petersen.
Marthe Engelstad beats the defense before scoring her second goal Tuesday at the Great Park. Photo by Brandon Petersen.
October 25, 2022

By Brandon Petersen

It's been a difficult week for the Westcliff women's soccer team. 

Tuesday's 2-1 win over Benedictine Mesa at the Great Park was the Warriors' third contest in six days — with a seven-hour bus ride mixed in. 

It was unseasonably hot, their legs were tired, they tapped deep into the reserves. 

None of it mattered. 

"I couldn't be more proud of their effort today — outstanding," Westcliff head coach Jack Gidney said. "To get through (all of the adversity) and get the result on a frustrating morning — they are true Warriors."

Gidney was especially pleased with the performances of fullbacks Destiny Rodriguez and Christine Thorvaldsen, but the day belonged to Marthe Engelstad, who scored both Westcliff goals. 

The first score came in the 20th minute on a help from Thea Sofie Kanestrom. 

In the 64th minute, Thorvaldsen and Angelina Espinal then hooked up Engelstad in the box, and she was able to maneuver around a defender and deke the goalie before slipping it left into net. 

"Marthe was tremendous," Gidney said. "She battled everyone, and fully deserved her two goals."

The Warriors (9-4-2, 8-3) out-shot the Redhawks 29-6, and took a 9-0 advantage on corners. 

Kiara Fontanilla (one save) and Ana Martinez Moreno split time in the net.

Jaden Campbell collected 10 saves for Benedictine. 

Up next, the Warriors wrap the regular season with Senior Night, Thursday at the Great Park. 

Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.