Women's Soccer showed growth after a weekend trip to Tucson by bouncing back from a tough 5-0 road loss to nationally-ranked Pima on Saturday. They defeated GateWay Community College 4-1 on Tuesday.
Two games on the road tested the Pumas physically and mentally, but Head Coach Ernie Santa Cruz was pleased with how the team responded. "It was a good result against GateWay after the long road trip to Pima," said Santa Cruz. "The team continues to improve with each game."
In Saturday night's contest at Pima, the Pumas struggled to find rhythm against one of the top programs in the NJCAA. Despite solid moments defensively, PVCC couldn't hold off Pima's high-pressure attack and entered halftime down 2-0. The second half saw the Aztecs pull away, netting three more goals to secure the win.
But just three days later, the Pumas flipped the script against GateWay.
PVCC came out aggressively, controlling possession early and creating scoring chances. The Pumas were rewarded in the 27th minute when Freshman Kassandra Flanagan found the back of the net to put PVCC up 1-0. Nevaeh Villegas added two back-to-back goals, and newcomer Tori Wefel-Hayes secured a win with her first collegiate goal in her first appearance with the squad.
The win improves the Pumas' record and gives the team momentum heading into a crucial match on Saturday, September 27, when they face nationally-ranked Scottsdale Community College. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:45pm.
PVCC Women's Soccer continues to build on a foundation of hard work, development, and resilience, a culture Coach Santa Cruz says is just beginning to take shape.