Lady Monarchs break losing streak

Megan Knuston scored the game winning goal, leading the Monarchs to stay undefeated on their home turf.

By Kevin Khachatryan, Staff Writer

Los Angeles Valley College soccer player Melanie Velasquez dribbles the ball in a game against the Los Angeles City College Pugs at Valley College in Valley Glen, California, on September 23, 2022. (Griffin O'Rourke | Valley Star)

Despite losing their previous three games on the road, the Lady Monarchs returned home and defeated the Cubs with a late game winning shot to win 2-1.

Valley College soccer (3-3-2) ended its three-game losing streak on the road after beating Los Angeles City College (1-4-1) in dramatic fashion on Friday afternoon. Late game winner from sophomore Megan Knuston sealed the deal for another Monarch victory at home.

“We have great individuals on the team, who are great with team chemistry,’’ said associate Head Coach Melissa Fernandez. “We rely on them to stay positive and they help us keep the energy moving forward.”

In the first half, both teams looked evenly matched. The Cubs drew first blood at the 30 minute mark, but the Monarchs answered back with an unassisted kick by freshman Angie Diaz to tie the game.

Entering the second half with both teams tied at 1-1, the intensity and aggressiveness continued with both teams remaining scoreless for the first 82 minutes of the second half. Defense and goalkeeping were major factors for both teams in this game with a combined total of 11 saves on goal.

Valley only managed to take 3 shots in the second half, two of which were wide open,, but failed to score due to the pressure the Cubs were bringing on the players. The Cubs had four attempted four shots on goal but missed all of them, dooming City College to a scoreless half..

“It was an off-day,’’ said Fernandez “I’m just happy we got the results.”

As the Monarchs were able to hold the visiting team to zero points in the second half, the Cubs responded by playing with physical aggression. Despite a few blatant push-offs, the referees failed to make the obvious call.

Los Angeles Valley College Monarchs soccer player Karen Hernandez collides with player Jakelin-Jimenez Alvardo from Los Angeles City College Pugs. (Griffin O'Rourke | Valley Star)

“It was very frustrating to say the least,” said coach Fernandez. “You can’t control the ref, but I just had some questions about what the thought process was for the calls.”

Shortly after the 83 minute mark, Valley scored a game winner to seal the game with under two minutes left in final regulation. Freshman Katherine Lopez assisted Knutson, allowing to slip by the Cubs defender and shoot the ball past the goalie into the right side of the net.

The Lady Monarchs will face College of the Canyons at home on Tuesday at 4:00 p.m.