Warriors Roll Through Pacific Union

By Brandon Petersen

For those unfamiliar with the northern part of the state, Angwin, the location of Pacific Union College, doesn't really resemble the California you and I know. 

It's more like southern Oregon, lush evergreen forests and thick, long Bermuda grass — the type of turf that can easily frustrate a soccer player used to quicker playing surfaces.

Such was the case for the Westcliff women's soccer team Thursday in Angwin — but, no matter — the Warriors were able to find their footing and put away the Pioneers, 3-0. 

"Horrible place to play soccer," Westcliff head coach Jack Gidney said. "Narrow and short pitch, ball didn't run true on it. Makes the game very congested. The team had to adapt tactically and emotionally to deal with the environment."

The Warriors dealt with it well. 

Thea Sofie Kanestrom made it 1-0 in the 21st minute on helps from Alessandra Ramirez and Marthe Engelstad. 

Three minutes later, Angelina Espinal scored on assists from Christine Thorvaldsen and Engelstad again. 

"Angelina picked up another couple of goals," Gidney said. "However, I thought Marthe led the line very well to allow us to create.

"And in the second half, Maria Mendez and Sebelle Rojas provided sparks we needed in key areas to kill the game off."

Rojas helped on Espinal's second goal, which put it away at 3-0 in the 67th minute. 

Ana Martinez Moreno picked up the win for the Dubs without a save, but helped maintain the back line for the clean sheet.

Jayleen Casillas had a pair of saves for the Pioneers.

"I was very proud of the was the group adapted," Gidney said. "They composed themselves in a hostile environment to not only get a win, but keep the shut-out."

The Warriors (5-3-2, 4-2) travel to Cal Maritime Saturday for an 11 a.m. kickoff.