Story by Lyle Martin, Jr.

TAFT, CA – In an electrifying start to their season, the Taft College Women's Soccer Team secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Oxnard College. The journey to Oxnard was filled with a mix of nerves and excitement, setting the stage for a match that would test the team's early season form.

The game began on a tentative note as the team found its footing, shaking off initial jitters. However, the Cougars quickly dialed in their focus, dominating possession and applying pressure. By the halftime whistle, Taft was leading 2-0, thanks to a stellar performance from Faith Lelouis, who netted both goals. Stephany Castillo provided crucial assists, showcasing the team's collaborative spirit and tactical execution.

Despite numerous substitutions and a shift in formation aimed at giving more players game time and testing new strategies, Taft maintained its competitive edge throughout the match. While there were minor defensive lapses, the team held strong, ending the game with a well-deserved win.

Head Coach Lyle Martin Jr. expressed his satisfaction with the performance, noting, "I am very happy with the result, as it allowed us to start our season with a victory and also highlighted areas we can improve on. I am looking forward to seeing what this team can achieve this season."

Assistant Coach Katie Martin added, "It was exciting to watch a team this season that has a lot more competitiveness."

Looking ahead, the Cougars are set to face a significant challenge as they travel to Sierra College this Friday, August 29. This upcoming match will be a critical indicator of the team's potential and resilience against higher level competition.