Three first-goals were all the offense Rio Hondo College would need to defeat Mt. San Antonio College by a final score of 3-2 on Tuesday in Whittier.
The win improved the Roadrunners to 6-1-2 overall while the Mounties fell to 6-3-2.
Rio Hondo fell behind early, as Giselle Valdez gave the Mt. SAC the early lead with her goal in the 10th minute.
10 minutes later, the Roadrunners came right back to tie it up. Viviana Viramontes scored the 20th minute before Lismed Salcido put Rio Hondo out in front 2-1 with her goal in the 35th minute.
Mt. SAC wasted little time in the offensive first half and got the equalizer from Liani Sanchez in the 39th minute.
Just moments later, Rio Hondo went back out in front for good. Serina Vargas broke free in the 42nd minute to score and send the Roadrunners into the break leading 3-2.
From an offensive showdown, the game shifted to a defensive battle in the second half as neither team was able to find the back of the net. Anaguisel Ramos earned the win in goal for the Roadrunners and was credited with two saves.
Head coach Jennifer Tanaka-Hoshijo was proud of her team's effort.
"When Mt. SAC went up 1-0 early and came out strong, we knew we would have to compete if we wanted to be successful tonight," Tanaka-Hoshijo said. "We are proud of the heart the team showed to battle back. It was a complete team effort and some great soccer was played at times. We will continue working to be our best and learn what to improve on."
Contributing to the win were Alice Hernandez, Serena Rosas, Viramontes, Brianna Valdez, and Janessa Gallardo with assists.
The Roadrunners return to action on Friday (Oct. 4) to host Taft College in a 4 p.m. non-conference game.