Panthers Edges the Roadrunners in Dramatic Shootout to Advance in SoCal Regionals
The Chaffey College women's soccer team opened the postseason with a composed and disciplined performance on Wednesday afternoon, earning a 1-1 draw before defeating College of the Desert in a penalty shootout to advance to Round 2 of the 3C2A SoCal Regionals.
Chaffey wasted no time setting the tone, striking in the third minute when Geneve Ashton buried a clean finish off a setup from Karina Parchment. The combination generated early momentum and allowed the Panthers to dictate possession through much of the opening half.
The defensive back line, led by Sofia Guerrero, Emma Guadron, Chloe Rodriguez, Tavajia Richardson, and Tegan Garcia, held firm against the Roadrunners. Midfielders Alexa Pereida and Natalia Gonzalez provided stability through central channels, breaking up Desert's buildups and helping Chaffey maintain structure throughout both halves.
Goalkeeper Isabella Ortiz remained composed in net, guiding the defensive shape and managing the match's tempo during Desert's attacking surges. The Roadrunners equalized in the 67th minute, but the Panthers continued to defend with poise, limiting additional chances as the match moved through overtime and into a decisive shootout.
In the penalty shootout, Chaffey converted four attempts with confidence and discipline, while Ortiz delivered two critical saves in a nerve-racking finish that secured the win and advanced the Panthers' postseason run.
The Panthers will now turn their attention to Round 2 of the 3C2A SoCal Regionals, traveling to face No. 8 Orange Coast College on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 7 p.m.
