After nearly 3 weeks filled with double-days and a team retreat including service projects, The Master's University Women's Soccer Team was excited to finally compete against somebody other than their own teammates. The Lady Mustangs got their season off to a flying start as they soared to a 7-0 victory over the visiting Eagles from Sierra Nevada College.
It took TMU a little while to find their way and settle into a rhythm in this contest. Senior Sarah Stead (Temecula, CA) finally broke through in the 18th minute to get the Mustangs on the score sheet first. Junior Midfielder Hailey Gomillion (Lancaster, CA) then doubled the lead twelve minutes before the halftime break.
"We started very slowly today and really had a hard time putting together passes," said 10th year head coach Curtis Lewis. "By some individual effort, we were able to get on the scoreboard and then got some subs on and things started to change."
After the intermission, the Lady Mustangs came out firing with two goals in span of 100 seconds in the 52nd and 53rd minute to put the match away. Sarah Stead earned her brace, followed by Kellian Ahearn (Mission Viejo, CA) announcing her return after missing the past two years due to multiple injuries. Witnessing her goal was a special moment for all those who have observed the diligence Kellian has invested to give herself an opportunity to contribute on the field during her senior campaign.
Coach Lewis continued, "After our halftime talk they came out and played a great 45 and we ended with a much better half. I am really proud of the way the team listened and put into practice what we asked (of them)."
Goals by seniors Kaylee Poffek (Oak Hills, CA) and Gi Crimi (Stevenson Ranch, CA), were followed by the final tally from freshman Alexis Sorrell (Arcadia, CA) in the 88th minute of play.
Other than the starting goalkeeper and the back three, no Lady Mustang logged more than 51 minutes, as Coach Lewis was afforded the luxury to use 24 players throughout the contest.
The Lady Mustangs return to the pitch in less than 48 hours as they continue their season-opening 10 game home stand. They will face another group of Eagles, this time the #8 ranked squad in the NAIA, Northwest University (WA), on Saturday at 11:00 am on Reese Field.
Master's U will not have to leave the friendly confines of the Santa Clarita Valley until their third GSAC contest on September 28th.
