Stallions complete in win
Wendy Alexander/The Madera Tribune
Madera South’s Aliah Avila works on attacking the Reedley defense during Thursday’s 4-0 victory. Avila scored three goals in the win.
After four games in the 2021 season, the Madera South girls soccer team looks primed for a competitive run in the County/Metro Athletic Conference.
Thursday’s 4-0 victory over Reedley proved to be a turning point for the Stallions as their defensive capabilities and offensive output finally came together in what was a dominant performance.
So far, the Stallions have scored nine goals while allowing eight, including a 2-1 overtime victory over the Liberty last week.
“I thought the girls played really well today and I am happy about the goals,” Madera South head coach Roman Delgadillo said. “We moved the ball really well and our defense was strong.”
Two simple components for Delgadillo and his girls — defend well and attack.
But it was one player that shined the brightest Thursday evening — sophomore Aliah Avila.
Avila dominated from the opening whistle, grabbing three goals in the match.
Avila showcased her speed, power and skill as she broke away for a 40-yard run that resulted in a goal and a right-footed finish that flew past the opposing keeper.
Avila’s sprint and goal saw her knife through the visiting defense before running unopposed for 20 yards, later dispatching the ball to give Madera South a 4-0 victory.
“The girls were attacking early and we had a lot of chances,” Delgadillo said. “When we can score our chances, we will be a good team and hard for teams to beat us.”
While Avila took the plaudits for the three goals, Brianna Maciel grabbed a goal to complete the four-goal rout of Reedley.
Avila and Maciel converted the chances that Madera South found frequently. Their playmaking, both in midfield and out on the wings ,provided Madera South with the impetus needed to overcome Reedley.
Autumn Moreno, Celeste Dorado, Victoria Ramirez and Brianna Velasco each collected an assist as the Stallions cashed in on pinpoint passes and cohesive teamwork.
Junior Andrea Vasquez showcased an intricate piece of skill as it almost resulted in a surprising finish. Vasquez dribbled the ball down the left side of the pitch into the final third before taking on nearly three Reedley defenders.
The junior danced around the trio before being disposed as she geared up for a shot.
