The Dons pulled off a decisive and entertaining win on Tuesday night, with a commanding 8-0 victory over Alhambra that brought their season record to an impressive 9-2-1.
The fun started early with the successful execution of a fan favorite set piece called “Starfish.” Ruby Coy delivered a perfect ball to June Natal, who buried it for goal #1. The Dons showed their dominance as they moved the ball confidently around the field. Elouise Kubas had some nice dishes to Audrey Tseng, Hannah Hoover and June, who all got some shots off to rattle the goalie. Showing her usual grit, Hannah made a sliding attack to punch the ball in for goal #2. The momentum picked up as Avery Titus found some space up the line, beating the defender for goal #3.
While the offense soared, the defense was impenetrable with Courtney Hamill, Olivia Kemp, Farren Staino, Ashby Raher, and Alexa Wall keeping the ball pinned in Alhambra’s half. Goalie Brooke Lewis easily fielded the few shots that came through.
Lucy Hamilton and Avery Adams kept the crowd entertained with their fancy footwork and precise passing. Allie Schofield and Mari Beltramo kept the energy high and the pressure on in the midfield. The relentless pressure broke down the Moors defense and Titus struck again with a shot the keeper couldn’t control for goal #4. Earning another corner kick, the team took a different tack this time, with Titus lobbing the ball into the box for Avery to put away for goal #5.
The second half was more of the same, with a few extra treats. Threatened by Audrey on a breakaway run, Alhambra committed a foul in the box that resulted in a penalty kick. Star goalkeeper Brooke stepped up to take the kick, burying it for goal #6. A few minutes later the Dons were awarded a second PK, and Courtney left her defensive post to take a strong shot which the goalie managed to corral.
Off a slick give-and-go with Livvy Lewis, Titus completed her hat trick with goal #7. Hannah put on the goalie gloves, and almost immediately made a crucial kick save to preserve the shutout. Talia Tichner had an exciting run up the field, but the Alhambra keeper made an aggressive tackle to thwart the attempt. The final exclamation point came from Lucy, firing a shot into the top of the net for Goal #8.
Our Dons close out their sensational season with four more games, starting with hosting cross-town rivals Campolindo tonight at 5p… and Liberty at home at 4p on Saturday. Come cheer on these superstars!
Let’s GO Dons!!