Head coach John Dominguez and assistant coaches Nuvia Guillen and Brianna Martin pose with seniors Sarayi Serrano, Mia Leal, Daniela Ibarra, Geraldine Rubio, Allison Cohen, Yissel Olivares and Angelina Esobar on Saturday afternoon at the Lobo Soccer Field. (Photo by Peter Dindinger)
In an electrifying culmination to their season, the Lobo women’s soccer team of Sul Ross State seized a definitive 3-1 win against LeTourneau University on Saturday afternoon at Lobo Soccer Field.
Marking a poignant Senior Day, the team paid tribute to Sarayi Serrano, Mia Leal, Daniela Ibarra, Geraldine Rubio, Allison Cohen, Yissel Olivares, and Angelina Escobar, all of whom have been pivotal to the squad.
Despite an early setback when LeTourneau’s Chanel Kemball-Cook scored the opening goal in the 19th minute, the Lobos quickly retaliated. Sarayi Serrano’s attempt may have been thwarted, but Yissel Olivares adeptly turned the tide, converting a rebound into a goal and leveling the scores at 1-1 during the 26th minute.
The second half proved even more triumphant for the Lobos. Just three minutes in, a throw-in by Karina Gallegos found its mark in Toni Sanchez, who, without hesitation, rocketed the ball into the net, taking the lead at 2-1. A mere two minutes later, the dynamo Olivares, assisted by Allison Cohen, notched up her second goal of the day, consolidating the Lobos’ victory at 3-1.
The final records for the season stand at Sul Ross State with 3-12-1 and LeTourneau at 6-7-5.
After the match, a jubilant Olivares reflected on the significance of the victory, saying, “It’s been a rough season. So, obviously ending it with a win is just really great for the whole team.” She added, “Honestly it felt great being able to score not one but two goals.”
Head coach John Dominguez, evidently proud, commented on the resilience and perseverance of his team. “We talk about falling forward in moments that we need to fall forward into. We had a really rough season… As far as today, the team came together and they sent the seniors out with a bang.”
In addition to the goals, the Lobos showcased their offensive prowess, racking up a total of 20 shots, with 13 on target. Notably, both Olivares and Serrano made six attempts each. Defensive stalwart Geraldine Rubio stood tall in the goal, deflecting shots and making four crucial saves.
Karina Gallegos clinched her spot as the team’s top scorer this season, netting a total of six goals. Meanwhile, Olivares and Serrano wrapped up their seasons closely behind, each with three goals.
The spirit of resilience and teamwork displayed by the Lobos during this game undoubtedly sets an optimistic tone for the seasons to come.
