The Del Norte girls soccer team took over sole possession of top spot in the Little 4 standings with a second win in two conference games at Ferndale on Wednesday.
Im a game marred by a couple of big injuries, one to each team, the Warriors prevailed 2-0 and improved to 2-0 in the Little 4.
The loss was the first in conference for the Cats, who dropped to 0-1-1.
Team captain Alexis Aguirre, who is enjoying a very impressive start to the new season for the Del Norte girls, netted both goals.
The Warriors led 2-0 at halftime with both defenses holding the opposing attack at bay in the second half.
“We were moving the ball well and we passed the ball well,” Del Norte head coach Shawn Eckart said. “Our communication was probably better than we’ve ever had.”
This has been one of the encouraging starts to a season for the Del Norte girls in some time and they have lost just once in their opening five games under the guidance of the first-year coach.
The Del Norte girls, who reportedly worked very hard over the summer months in preparation for the season, are now 3-1-1 and they look like the most dangerous team in the Little 4 this fall.
Particularly on defense, where the Warriors have now posted three shutouts in five games, including two straight.
Goalkeeper Deja Payne has played a key role in that and made another outstanding save in Wednesday’s win to help preserve the clean sheet.
In midfield, Aurora Mitchell also continued to impress for the visitors and continues to be instrumental in her team’s success.
“Aurora Mitchell really hustled and was definitely moving the ball well,” her coach said.
Eckart also praised the play of Ferndale junior Tinnley Pidgeon in goal, without whom the score could have been worse for the hosts.
“The Ferndale goalie was excellent,” he said of the multi-sport standout. ” she came out of the box really well.”
Next up, on Saturday, the Wildcats will host Eureka in a no-conference game, while the Warriors play at Arcata.
