Facing its biggest test of the early season, the Rio Hondo College women's soccer team put together a dominant 3-0 shutout victory over No. 1 state-ranked Ventura College on Tuesday in Whittier.
Rio Hondo entered the contest ranked No. 7 in the first California Community College Sports Information Association (CCCSIA) state poll of the 2021 season and will likely climb towards the top after the win over top-ranked Ventura. Rio Hondo is also currently ranked No. 9 in the recent United Soccer Coaches women's soccer national poll.
With the victory, the Roadrunners improved to 4-0 overall and have now outscored their opponents by a 14-2 margin.
The Rio Hondo offense was relentless, posting 13 shots on goal. But the first half nearly went scoreless until the 43rd minute. Aunisa Morales scored the game's opening goal off the assist from Alice Hernandez.
Rio Hondo broke the game open in the second, getting goals from Alexis Macias in the 60th minute and Jackie Marin in the 86th. Marin and Macias returned the favor on assists.
Daniella Marin posted her second shutout of the season, needing to make just one save.
"We are proud of the efforts put forward by everyone on the field," said Rio Hondo women's soccer head coach Jennifer Tanaka-Hoshijo. "The team defended well collectively and was able to transition to create some great attacking opportunities. It was an outstanding team effort."
Rio Hondo returns to action on Friday (Sep. 17) when the Roadrunners travel to Fullerton College for a 3 p.m. non-conference game.