In a game that could have very easily gone south in a hurry, the VC women's soccer team held fast, got a little lucky, and picked up steam throughout their scoreless draw with Santa Monica Tuesday evening at the Sportsplex. Ventura goalie Aracely Castro recorded eight saves to keep Santa Monica without a goal. Meanwhile, the Pirate offense produced 11 shots in the game with six in the frame.
The game almost got off to a disastrous start for VC (1-5-4) as Santa Monica hit a shot off the cross bar in he first minute of play. The Corsairs were on the offensive in the early going, controlling the tempo with numerous scoring opportunities. VC managed to keep the ball out of the net thanks to strong defensive play from Karen Martinez, Kayla Simmons-Allon and Carina Cardenas among others, the Pirates slowly began to get their legs under them in the game.
Later in the half, the Pirates were able to mount their own offensive charges, including strong runs by Paulina Aldrete, Yamile Mondragon and Audrey Castillo.
In the second half, the intensity built steadily as neither team was able to breakthrough with the potential game-winner. In the 78th minute, the Corsairs lost a player due to a red card, and over the final 12 minutes Ventura was able to attack with a vengeance. Unfortunately they could not find the net, and the 0-0 draw was the result.
Ventura returns to the pitch on Friday Sept. 28 against Bakersfield. The match is slated top begin at 6:00 pm at the VC Sportsplex.