Ortenzo's Late Goal Lifts Rustlers Past the Pirates 1–0 in OEC Thriller

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. — The Golden West College women's soccer team delivered another clutch performance in Orange Empire Conference play, earning a 1–0 shutout victory over rival Orange Coast College on Friday afternoon at the Rustlers Soccer Field. With the win, Golden West improved to 10-3-4 overall and 4-3-3 in the OEC, while Orange Coast dropped to 11-4-3 and 5-2-3 in conference action.

The match was a tense defensive battle from the opening whistle, with both teams battling for control in the midfield and trading limited scoring chances throughout the first half. The Rustlers finally broke through in the 85th minute, when freshman forward Alexandra Ortenzo  found the back of the net off a well-placed assist from midfielder Ari Ramos to put Golden West ahead 1–0.

The late goal would prove to be the difference, as goalkeeper Sierra Carter anchored the Rustler defense with a stellar performance, recording 10 saves to post her eighth shutout of the season.

Golden West placed five shots on target and earned two corner kicks while limiting the Pirate attack. Ortenzo led the Rustlers with one goal on one shot, while Ramos, Olivia Brown, Kaylee Gomez, and Rylee Schneider each contributed shots on goal.

The Rustlers will be back on the pitch Tuesday, November 4, when they travel to take on Fullerton College with a 3pm kickoff.