FRESNO, Calif. – Prior to yesterday's match against Fresno City College, CRC's head women's soccer coach Cesar Plasencia made it clear what his young Hawks strength would be this season. "Our calling card is our defense, so if we get a goal or two we could have a chance," said Plasencia in response to how things could play out in the match. "If we can take a step forward we will give ourselves a chance to compete and possibly win." Cosumnes River did just that, rebounding from an early 1-0 deficit to take the match, 2-1.
The 2013 edition of the Cosumnes River women's soccer team has been searching for its identity following a tumultuous preseason that saw the Hawks veteran core decimated. The Hawks look to have found their identity, however, as they've soared early in their nonconference schedule. Defense has proven to be CRC's strength, as strong play from the Hawks veteran backs and freshman goalkeeper have paced the team to a 2-0-1 record to begin the season. "Our back four and keeper were stellar again," said Coach Plasencia following the team's victory. "(The team) followed (our) game plan to a tee."
The Hawks travelled to Fresno with the momentum of a huge 2-1 victory over College of the Canyons, a nationally ranked southern California soccer power. CRC faced an uphill battle in the valley, however, as Fresno City was an early favorite to make the CCCAA's Final Four. The team is currently ranked #4 in the NSCAA's national team rankings. Things looked to get even worse for the young Hawks team as they fell behind the Rams early, with Fresno City taking a 1-0 advantage. CRC responded well as they have all season, however, chipping away at the Rams for the remainder of the contest.
"We came back from a deficit as we got down 1-0, but we kept fighting," said the Hawks veteran coach. Cosumnes River netted the equalizer before taking the lead for good in the 87th minute, as the Hawks took the match 2-1 for their second victory of the season. It's also the team's second victory over a top-ten nationally ranked opponent as well, an impressive feat for any team's postseason resume. CRC looks to add another as they travel south to close out the week, as the Hawks will take on 2012 national champion Cerritos College on Friday. The Hawks return home next Tuesday when they play host to visiting Butte College.