Liberty, Paloma Valley play to 1-1 draw in girls soccer

Liberty's Kimora Martinez puts the ball past Paloma goalkeeper Zoe Manzano. (Photo by Action Captures Media Group)

By Juliette Johnson, Correspondent

Liberty High School’s girls soccer team tied against the Paloma Valley Wildcats on Wednesday, 1-1.

The Bison took over the first half of the game in the Wildcats’ defensive zone with lots of pressure and aggression shown towards the opposing defensive players. After the first 20 minutes, it was still 0-0 while ball possession started to even out across the field.

With less than five minutes remaining in the half, Liberty took the lead. The goal was scored by sophomore Kimora Martinez, assisted by senior Atianna Gipson. While spirits were high during halftime, head coach Anthony Bennett explained to his players that they “still need to play faster.” Senior Malia Russell reminded her team that they have “got to make sure they’re there” alongside her in the offensive zone.

The game took a turn in the second half, as the Wildcats maintained more possession of the ball, which led to their chances to score. Paloma’s goal was scored by Gracie Garcia. This woke the Bison defense up, and their already aggressive play outshone their previous mistakes and kept the Wildcats from another goal, even though they continued to not have much offensive possession. In the last 20 minutes, it remained 1-1 with a more even playing field, including extraordinary goaltending by the Bison goalkeeper, Shyler Johnson.

“This is one of our first games where we’ve had more of our varsity girls, so I’m pretty happy with getting our team developed; this is only our third game, so they’re coming together,” said Bennett when asked his opinion about the game overall. “I’m really excited for the future.”

Gracie Garcia prepares to score the lone goal for Paloma Valley. (Photo by Action Captures Media Group)

 Atianna Gipson moves the ball forward for Liberty High. (Photo by Action Captures Media Group)

 Luna Diaz (7) and Kia Martinez battle for possession of the ball. (Photo by Action Captures Media Group)

Carolynn La Rochelle handles the ball for Liberty on Wednesday. (Photo by Action Captures Media Group)

Brooklyn Barlow (19) battles Lyla Lopez for the ball. (Photo by Action Captures Media Group)

Kimora Martinez handles the ball during Wednesday's 1-1 draw. (Photo by Action Captures Media Group)