STILL ROLLING

By Brandon Petersen

Justice University struck just 19 seconds into Thursday's match, a "gentle reminder," as Westcliff head coach Jack Gidney called it, about respecting the game.

But the Warriors steadied, spread the goals across the roster, and rolled to a 7–1 win at Lake Forest Sports Park Thursday afternoon.

"It was a lovely, gentle reminder about respecting sport and the game," Gidney said. "It's so easy to slip, especially having to play them for a second time. I was annoyed about the goal, yeah, but we needed it. More wins, more minutes, squad being used all week, loads of goals, and we keep the wins going.

"Really, what am I complaining about?"

Isabella Covarrubias equalized in the 8th minute off a setup from Eva Kristjansdottir, and the Warriors never looked back.

Stephanie Serrato followed with a finish from Isabella Bottero, who then added one of her own.

Amylette Lopez, back in the mix, gave Westcliff its fourth with a composed strike early in the second half. It was the fourth straight game in which Lopez has scored.

Kristjansdottir capped her strong day with a goal of her own before Jysabella Tolentino and Brianna Mejia closed the books late.

Bottero was highly effective in the attack, logging a goal and two assists.

Kristjansdottir and Tolentino each contributed a goal and assist. Valery Cruz came off the bench to "run the show," as Gidney put it, settling play in the midfield.

Hailey Stubbles earned a shout for her dangerous service, repeatedly driving balls into the box during the first half.

Samantha Aguila added a highlight-reel assist, juking a defender before firing a low cross that Tolentino buried.

"It was nice to see Val come on in the second half and just put a bit of ease on it," Gidney said. "Once the goals start flying in, then it's like, how many?"

The Warriors (7-0-1) outshot Justice 50–4 and piled up 17 corner kicks – a new program record.

Now the Warriors will turn their sights to a tough matchup at Biola.

"Up next is a nice little test," Gidney said. "A very good Division II before we go into league — just a reminder that every now and again a game like this will pop up, and you have to be ready."

 The Dubs will travel up the 5 for a 7 p.m. kickoff Monday.