Falcon women defeat Sierra in Big 8 opener, 2-1

A crowd of 200+ spectators were treated to an outstanding match on Tuesday night at Falcon Stadium as the state's #10-ranked team, Sierra, paid a visit to Folsom Lake (ranked #9) for the Big 8 Conference opener for both teams.  A scheduling oddity had the two top-rated teams in the Big 8 facing each other to start the season.  The play was crisp, aggressive, and competitive as the both teams battled for every ball.  Sophomore forward Avery Pieri put the Falcons ahead 1-0 in the 24th minute with an assist from Annette Medina.  The Falcons continued to pepper the goal with scoring chances in the second half, but none found the net, including Klaire Horton's screamer from 30 yards that hit the far post.  The Wolverines continued to grind and look for an opening, and that chance occurred in the 78th minute when they scored the tying goal.  But before the Wolverines could finish celebrating, Klaire Horton took a pass from Mia Solorio-Smith and found herself ono-on-one with the Sierra goalie.  This time Klaire didn't miss , and the Falcons had a 2-1 lead that they wouldn't relinquish.  The Falcons defense held firm over the final ten minutes for an exciting win over a quality opponent.

The Falcons (now 7-0-2 and 1-0 in Big 8) will travel to Modesto (5-5, 0-1 in Big 8) on Friday for a 3:30 pm kickoff.