Women’s soccer rolls Hartnell in opening round of playoffs
Seeded #2 in northern California, the FLC women's soccer team opened the CCCAA state playoffs with a commanding 5-1 victory over #15 seed Hartnell College on Saturday night at Falcon Stadium. The Falcons looked sharp from the start, executing their set plays and controlling the ball while limiting the Panthers' opportunities to advance past midfield. It didn't take long before Natalie Fischer found Tiara Webb in front of the goal for the game's first score in the 8th minute. Five minutes later, it was Webb who got the assist on Breanna Brumet's goal for a 2-0 Falcon lead. The Falcons would add one more goal just before halftime, this one off the foot of Britney Johnson, assisted by Andrea Martinez. In the second half, FLC coach Donny Ribaudo was able to give his entire roster some playing time in a playoff situation, something that could prove valuable in the coming week. The Falcons added two more goals – one each by Martinez and Johnson – for a 5-0 advantage early in the second half. The Panthers eventually found the net late in the match for their only bright spot of the night. With the win, the Falcons advance to playoff round 2, where they'll meet Big 8 Conference runner-up American River on Tuesday afternoon at Falcon Stadium. The two teams played twice already this season, with the Falcons winning 2-1 at ARC, then taking the rematch at FLC, 3-0. Regardless of previous outcomes, Tuesday's playoff match should be intense.