Falcon Women Open BVC With Big Win

The 2014 FLC women's soccer team did something last night they couldn't accomplish in their magical inaugural season of 2013: defeat Mendocino College.  The two teams tied twice last year as both went undefeated in Bay Valley Conference play, but the Falcons changed all that with a convincing 2-0 win under perfect conditions last night at Falcon Stadium.  "I think we surprised them a bit," remarked FLC coach Donny Ribaudo.  "I don't think they expected us to be that good.  We play a different style than we did last year, and we're a better team because of it." 

The Falcons used crisp passing and suffocating defense to turn back the Eagles, with goalkeeper Alison Darr recording her third shutout of the young season.  The Falcons scored first in the 20^th minute when Alexis Wallace placed a perfect cross to Caitlin Castle, who then whistled the ball past the Mendocino goalie for her fifth goal of the season.  In the 35^th minute, a Mendocino player committed a hand-ball in the goal box off a Falcon pass, resulting in a penalty kick for FLC.  Sophomore midfielder Danielle Otto calmly smashed the PK into the net for a 2-0 lead.

Ribaudo noted that Otto "…had an outstanding game; definitely Player of the Game for us."  Also recognized for improved play and versatility was freshman Chayney Mata.  Mata has played center-back, midfield, and forward for the Falcons.  She was a defensive force early on last night, then was used to attack from forward.  With the win, the Falcons improved their overall season record to 5-3 and are 1-0 in conference play.