Women get revenge against Renegades with 1-1 tie

Valley scores its first goal in conference game and uses a stout defense versus Bakersfield College.

By: Alex Diaz, Sports Editor

Valley’s Desiree Monge battles for the ball in a home contest Tuesday against the Renegades. (Luis Gonzalez for the Valley Star)

It had been eight conference games, seven shutouts, and one scoreless draw before Valley women’s soccer (3-10-3) scored its first conference goal, leveling out with Bakersfield College (6-7-3), 1-1.

The Renegades shut out the Monarchs earlier this month with a 5-0 win, but Valley used new defensive formations Tuesday that stifled Bakersfield’s attempts to attack, limiting them to just four shots in the first half. 

“I think this match was a big confidence builder,” said Assistant Coach Stacy Rodwell. “It’s something we can take more from than a tie, I hope.” 

Marking the first half, the Monarchs looked competitive offensively and defensively. At 16:36, Valley defender Samantha Valencia connected with forward Taylor Fuller to launch a shot hitting the back of the net. This goal put the Monarchs up 1-0. 

The Monarch defense held the Renegades on their half of the field for the first 30 minutes. However, the visitors tied the game in the 34 minute when Marlenis Andrades headed a corner kick from Alexandra Gallardo into the net, knotting the score at 1-1. 

“I haven’t scored in so long,” said forward Taylor Fuller, whose shot in the second half sailed over the crossbar. “It felt good to know I had an important role today.”

Despite the Renegades’ relentless offensive efforts in the second half, recording 15 shots,  goalkeeper Nina Diaz’s performance produced 13 saves. 

This match highlighted the Monarchs’ ability to control the game from start to finish, keeping a team that had scored five goals against them on Oct. 4 to one goal and earn a tie.

“I was excited to play them again,” said goalkeeper Nina Diaz. “To have another chance to show them we are not terrible.”

The Monarchs face West LA College on Friday at home as part of Valley’s 75th Anniversary event. The game begins at 4 p.m.