State #16 Women's Soccer Holds Own v. #1 Chaffey, 0-0 Draw

Getting recognition on the CCCSIA State Top 20 for the first time at #16, the Pasadena City College women's soccer team carried that confidence into the Panthers den on Friday--a contest at #1-ranked Chaffey. The result was the Lancers' third 0-0 road tie of the season in a shocker that has placed the rest of the state on notice that PCC has a playoff ready squad.

PCC extended its season-long undefeated streak to nine games (6-0-3) and the Lancers ended a 6-match series losing streak to Chaffey that goes back to 2016. The Panthers, a state finalist last year, are 6-1-1, but lost to #2 Saddleback (the defending state champions) on Tuesday before the Lancers pulled off this stunner. 

In the all-important power points ratings, the Lancers climbed to a current #13 in the state and #6 in the SoCal region. PCC is hoping to make the postseason for the first time in 11 years. 

"Every result we have had this season has been earned," said PCC head coach Terryn Soelberg. "Everyone stepped up today for us to give us a solid effort, a hard battle v. a good team in Chaffey."

The Lancers closest chance to scoring came in the 27th minute when Charlie Gallardo dribbled and drew two defenders, then passed to an open Hailey Hull, but her shot was stopped by Panthers' goalkeeper Marissa Betancourt. 

Soelberg said both of her goalies came up with big stops themselves in starter Natalia Portillo (first 60 minutes, seven saves) and Francesca Agliolo (last 30 minutes, three saves). 

PCC's defense has been the story so far this season as the Lancers have allowed just three goals or 0.33 per game all year as the state's #5-best defense (Chaffey is the only region team ahead of it at 0.27 allowed per game).

The Lancers return to action on Tuesday, Sept. 26 in a 4 p.m. game at Robinson Stadium v. San Diego Miramar.