October 1, 2023
Warriors Get the Win, Determined for a Final Push
By Francisco Claudio
It's been far too long since the Westcliff women's soccer team experienced a happy finish to a soccer game.
The team has had to navigate through much adversity since the beginning of the season but over the last couple of games, there was a shift that was noticeable by those who followed.
On Sunday the Warriors were finally able to celebrate properly after earning their first win of the season with a win over La Sierra, 2-0.
"Nice to get the win at last," said head coach Jack Gidney. "Been a long time coming after a handful of "nearly" performances."
There was very little separating the teams on the field as the first half ended with the score even at zero.
The second half started and both teams had a couple of shots on goal before the Warriors were able to capitalize on their second opportunity.
The Warriors' No. 6 Montes found the back of the net after a pass from No.5 Fagerang to put Westcliff up 1-0.
The Warriors haven't had many instances this season to go up 1-0 and they were not going to let this golden opportunity slip away.
In the 67th minute, Montes was back at it as she scored the second goal with a pass from No. 22 Brandau.
" I thought we looked comfortable from the beginning despite La Sierra sitting deep and filling the central area," Gidney said. "A little shape change at halftime allowed us to work the wider channels down the sides of the center backs a little more and create more chances.
"Amazing to see our youngest player get their first collegiate goals. Hopefully, a kick start to end the season with a positive run of results."
Westcliff dominated the second half and outshot La Sierra 15 to nine.
The Warriors goalkeeper No.0 Suarez was huge during the game with seven shots on goal saved.
With four games left in their season, the Warriors will need to win them all as they make a final push to try and slip into the Cal Pac postseason tournament.
Up Next: Westcliff will have a couple of days to rest up before their match against Soka on Saturday, October 7th, at 7:00PM.