Costa Mesa – Kelsey Bryant (SR/Apple Valley, CA) scored her team-leading fourth goal of the season to lead the Vanguard women's soccer team to a 1-0 triumph over Antelope Valley on Thursday. The Lions reeled off their third straight win as they gear up for the start of the Golden State Athletic Conference slate beginning next week.
What Happened?: The Lions got all the scoring they needed in the 53rd minute off some creative dribbling from Bryant. On a throw-in from Emily Miramontes (SR/Fullerton, CA), Ayanna Suarez (SR/Indio, CA) settled the ball and delivered a short pass to Bryant just outside the penalty box on the left side. Bryant then zig zagged from right to left while juking a pair of defenders before poking a low ball past a charging Antelope Valley goalkeeper into the right side of the net.
It was Bryant's first game-winning goal of the year and the second straight game she found the back of the net. Bryant's four goals this season have come on just nine shots.
The Lions, which outshot the Pioneers 9-0 in the first half, had a glorious opportunity to take the lead in the 38th minute when Macee Okey (SO/Lakewood, CA) unleashed a bomb from 35 yards out that landed just over the crossbar.
Suarez had another chance for the Lions with just over two minutes remaining in the game, but her volley in front of the goal went high.
The Lions were mostly unthreatened throughout the game. VU finished with a 17-3 edge in shots and a 5-1 advantage in corner kicks. The Pioneers committed 14 fouls to only two for VU.
Ashley Levi (FR/Brentwood, CA) made one save and recorded her second shutout while lowering her goals against average to 1.00. She has presided in goal for the Lions for all three of their wins.
What Was Said?: "The preseason has tested our team's tactical knowledge and soccer IQ," said Head Coach Lauren Mascaro. "One of the biggest takeaways is our confidence in understanding how to both break down and attack against a number of different formations. Glad to get the win and another shutout headed into GSAC play next week. A number of players are really hitting their stride and looking great right now, including Kelsey Bryant, who came up clutch today with her fourth goal of the year."
Why It's Important?: After allowing three goals in three straight games, the Lion defense has locked down opposing offenses to the tune of just one goal over the last three. Bryant's four goals this season gives her 13 for her career. Her career-best is six goals in 2019.
What's Next: Vanguard enters GSAC action with a road contest on Thursday, September 30 against The Master's. Kickoff is slated for 4:00 p.m. in Santa Clarita.
