Aliso Viejo, Calif. – Carly Becerra scored twice as the Soka University women's soccer team defeated La Sierra University 4-1 on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at The Den. After La Sierra tied the match late in the second half, the Lions responded with three unanswered goals in just over six minutes to secure their fifth conference victory of the season.
The Lions opened the scoring in the seventh minute when Valentina Ibañez delivered a cross into the box for Becerra, who found the back of the net to give Soka a 1-0 lead. Soka kept its poise throughout the first half, building attacks down the left side while limiting La Sierra's opportunities.
Micaela Villalobos played an important role defensively, intercepting passes and shutting down several dangerous attacks to help the Lions carry their advantage into halftime.
La Sierra found the equalizer in the 72nd minute through Priscila Alzaga, but Soka fired back instantly.
Marissa Jordan restored the Lions' lead in the 75th minute before setting up Becerra for her second goal just nine seconds later.
Analise Rocha added the finishing touch in the 82nd minute, completing a three-goal surge that put the match out of reach.
Soka's second-half attack proved decisive, with the Lions recording 12 of their 14 shots after halftime and finishing with seven shots on goal compared with La Sierra's three.
Sabrina Benjamin led Soka with four shots, including two on target, while goalkeeper
Jazlynn Camacho made two saves.
With the win, Soka improved to 6-5-3, overall and 5-4-1 in GSAC play.
