(Sierra Madre, Ca) – The La Salle girls’ soccer team began their quest for a CIF-SS title with a convincing 2-0 win over Monrovia in non-league play.
The Lancers were impressive on offense and defense against a young Lady Wildcats team that was playing their second game in two nights.
“I like the depth and hunger of this team,” said Lancer head coach Edgar Manvelyan. “I can be real creative rotating players in different positions and not have to worry about a drop off in talent.”
La Salle striker Ally Puga was in the right place on a cross from Kelli Matsumoto. Puga was able to fire off a shot that was stopped by Sarah Wallich, but battled to get the rebound for a goal in the 25th minute.
Three minutes later, Nicole Arevalo was able to head a shot past Wallich on a wonderful cross from Taylor Mediano from the left corner.
The Lancers could have easily put the game away in the second half if not for the brilliant play of Wallich in the nets making an incredible point-blank save on Puga and Matsumoto. Wallich made 18 saves during the match.
Monrovia had two chances to get on the board in the 70th minute when Riley Ward took a shot from the left side of the penalty box. In the 73rd minute Tyler Shirk was stopped by freshman goal keeper Cassidy Rey (eight saves).
“We brought some young girls up,” said Lady Wildcat head coach Jamie Payne. “The team lost four to graduation. I made sure we stacked the schedule with tough teams to get ready for league. “
La Salle improves to 1-0, while Monrovia is now 0-2 after opening the season with a loss to Westridge 3-2.
Monvrovia 0 0 0
La Salle 2 0 2
Scoring –
LS – 25th minute – Ally Puga (Kelly Matsumoto, Nicole Arevalo)
LS – 28th minute – Arevalo (Taylor Mediano)
GK: (M) Sarah Wallich 18 saves, (LS) Cassidy Rey 8 saves
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