Posted: Sep 17, 2014

Falcon Comeback Falls Short Against Fresno

Despite being on the wrong end of the 3-2 final score, the FLC women's soccer team served notice that they are a team that can play with anybody. Last night's opponent, Fresno City College, entered the game undefeated with a record of 5-0-1 and a #5 national ranking. In their six previous games the Rams had scored 14 goals and allowed a total of one goal (including a 5-0 shutout of American River last week). So it was not surprising when they scored in the 4^th minute of play to take a 1-0 lead. What was surprising, though, was that the Falcons responded just eight minutes later when Alexis Wallace found Paty Navarro, who knocked it past the charging Ram goalie for a Falcon goal. "I think we came out a bit nervous," commented head coach Donny Ribaudo. "But the longer we played, the more we realized we could play with them." The first half continued at a frenetic pace, with quick goals being scored by Fresno in the 27^th and 31^st minutes. Down 3-1, the Falcons again showed their resolve as Caitlin Castle sliced a perfect pass through the Fresno defense to Sami Thomas, who never broke stride as she drilled the shot into the net. The first half ended with the Falcons down 3-2, but starting to gain confidence that they could stage a comeback.

The Falcons came out a different team in the second half. They pressured Fresno into numerous turnovers, controlled the tempo, and had several scoring chances. "Our defense really came on in the second half. Ana Atteberry and Danielle Otto were outstanding," noted Ribaudo. Although the two teams combined for five first-half goals, it was clear that the second half was all about defense. Both teams had close chances to score (including a questionable non-call in the box that would have led to a Folsom Lake penalty kick), but in the end it was a scoreless second half as the Rams prevailed, 3-2.

Coach Ribaudo was pleased with the effort - if not the outcome - from his team. "I think we grew up a little bit. Once we settled down, we were very evenly matched." He also noted the great crowd support, including the very vocal (and body-painted) FLC men's soccer team. The atmosphere did not go unnoticed by the Fresno coach, either. "You guys are creating a culture here," commented coach Oliver Germond. "The facilities, the student and parent support, and quality players; this place is on the soccer map." Coach Germond also said he "expects to meet FLC again in the state playoffs."

Upcoming: The women will open Bay Valley Conference play at Falcon Stadium on Tuesday (6:00 pm) against Mendocino College. The two teams played twice last season, with both matches ending in a tie.