Women's Soccer Regional Finals Rematch Goes Saddleback Way

Two of the top teams from the 2024 season got together at Robinson Stadium on Friday night as the Pasadena City College women's soccer team hoped to exact some revenge against a Saddleback team that defeated the Lancers in the SoCal Regional Finals.

Instead, it was the Bobcats who ended PCC's 3-game win streak, using a penalty kick goal by Jinan Said in the 64th minute for a 1-0 triumph. While Saddleback (4-0) now tops the state's all-important Power Points Ratings, PCC (3-1) stands second in a system that determines the postseason seedings.

The Lancers never generated an official shot on goal over the 90 minutes, but did have a few chances in the final minutes. With four minutes left, PCC was fouled and took a free kick on the side of the goalie box. Isabella Nersesyan sent a ball to Kira Muramatsu but her header attempt went wide. 

Before the final whistle, Nersesyan tried a free kick from the 23-yard line but her shot sailed high.

PCC had solid defense provided by Caley Orona, who had frequent breakups of Saddleback's drives to the net, and Muramatsu, who was physical defending the Lancers goalie box. Goalie Gaioi Mahe was credited with five saves. Saddleback attempted 14 shots overall. 

Iris Pollard was another player who stood out for the Lancers. 

Pasadena next hosts Taft on Tuesday, Sept. 9 in a 4 p.m. game at Robinson Stadium.