The Dons faced the other cross-town rival, Miramonte, on a cold Monday evening. After their disappointing loss to Campo on Friday, the Dons wanted to come out strong against this tough opponent.

In an odd twist, the Mats decided not to start their best players at the onset. The Dons had a few solid chances to score but came up short. About 20 minutes into the first half, the Mats’ true starting lineup was on the field. Senior midfielder Natasha Malinovsky made a beautiful pass to Freshman forward Tatum Zuber on the left side and Tatum converted to give the Dons the lead 1-0.

The Mats answered back just before the half to make the score 1-1.

During the second half, the play was equal, but not a lot of shots on goal for either team.

Tatum Zuber came extremely close to scoring from a pass from Aliye Wingate on a corner kick. The goalkeeper made a great save, but this gave the Dons another opportunity for a corner with about 4 minutes remaining. Zuber was able to “Bend it Like Beckham” and score unassisted to give the Dons the lead 2-1.

With seconds remaining in the game, Senior Captain midfielder Ivy Souza pressured the defense in their backfield to gain control of the ball and was able to dish it to Freshman forward Addie Bailey and she put the nail in the coffin just before the whistle to make it 3-1.

The Dons’ defense was brilliant all night, anchored by Juniors Sami Hansen and Aliye Wingate. Other notable standouts were Freshmen Jacque Peacock and Chloe Quintella, who both played remarkable defense on the outside. Senior midfielders Gabby Ortale and Natasha Malinovsky were stellar in the midfield, as well.

Next up for the Dons will be at Benicia High School on Wednesday night at 7pm.

Go DONS!