Rustlers Hold Off Irvine Valley 3–2 for Key OEC Home Victory

Huntington Beach, Calif. — The Golden West College women's soccer team erupted for three second-half goals and held off a late surge to defeat Irvine Valley College 3–2 on Tuesday afternoon at the Rustlers Soccer Field. With the win, Golden West improves to 8-2-3 overall and 2-2-2 in Orange Empire Conference play, while Irvine Valley drops to 8-5 and 2-4 in the OEC.

After a scoreless opening half, the Rustlers broke the match open with a dominant 15-minute stretch. Freshman midfielder Giana Ortenzo opened the scoring in the 54th minute, winning a loose ball at the top of the box and burying an unassisted strike for a 1–0 lead. Just four minutes later, defender Kiersten Mahan doubled the advantage with a penalty kick, giving Golden West control at 2–0.

The Rustlers extended the margin to 3–0 in the 68th minute when Amelia Villegas scored off a perfectly placed assist from sophomore standout Kaylee Gomez (Cypress HS). The goal would ultimately stand as the difference-maker.

Irvine Valley refused to go away, cutting the deficit to 3–1 in the 78th minute and again to 3–2 in the 85th—both goals coming from Kuuipo Laumatia, assisted by Nikki MacDonald. But the Rustlers back line, anchored by Jada Overton and Mia Guerra, held strong in the closing minutes to secure the victory.

Goalkeeper Sierra Carter delivered another steady performance in net, recording seven saves in the win.

Golden West finished with eight total shots, converting three, while earning four corner opportunities. The win keeps the Rustlers squarely in the mix as the conference schedule tightens.

The Rustlers return to action on Friday, October 24, when they host Saddleback College in another pivotal OEC matchup.