A Dominique Velazquez goal in the 87th minute lifted first-place Walla Walla Community College to a 2-1 victory over Spokane in a Northwest Athletic Conference women’s soccer match Saturday afternoon at Warrior Field.
WWCC improved to 5-0 in the East and 9-0-1 overall.
“There were moments when we played really well, and there were moments when we didn’t,” WWCC coach Jordan Hacker said.
Velazquez, while negotiating a run down the right side of the pitch, sent a chip goalward that Sasquatch goalie Michelle Czarapata secured, but behind the goal line, according to game officials.
“She scored on a strange play that I have never seen before,” Hacker said. “We (were) fortunate to get out of the game with a win.”
Haley Wammock put the Warriors in front 1-0 at the 11-minute mark. She used a Jennifer Inions assist to full advantage.
“Jenn played the best game she has played for us,” Hacker said. “She controlled the midfield in the first half and put a lot of pressure on Spokane’s back line.”
Spokane’s Alli Smeltzer tied the score, off a Julia Adair assist, in the 59th minute.
“Spokane did a fantastic job in the second half disrupting what we were trying to do,” Hacker said.
The Warrior coach also praised defender Chelsea Marozik and goalie Paige Kubista for their efforts.
“Chelsea had a great week and (showcased) her leadership,” Hacker said. “Very happy with Paige making several saves (six) to keep us in the match.”
Walla Walla hosts Yakima Valley Wednesday at 11 a.m.
Union Bulletin
