Story by Cameran Wall
Staff Writer
CHINO HILLS–With an electrifying finish to the CIF division 3A quarterfinal soccer match between our Bishop Amat Lady Lancers and the Ayala Bulldogs last Friday, the girls varsity soccer team has advanced to the CIF semifinals.
The Lancers started off slowly as the Bulldogs dominated the first half as they took a 2-0 lead with goals made by Ekaette Afia and Virginia-bound striker Makenzy Doniak.
Senior April Juarez brought Amat back by scoring in the closing minutes of the first half.
In the second half, the Lady Lancers pushed for goals that came just short.
Ayala’s Mariah Sims gave the Bulldogs momentum after scoring off a free kick from midfield.
However, junior Natalie Rivas put the ball in, bringing the Lancers back yet again.
Doniak tried to seal the deal by shooting from the penalty box, but the ball bounced off the post.
Amat took control as Rivas slipped the ball through multiple defenders to sophomore Joni Gener, who scored the equalizing goal.
Deep into stoppage time, senior Miranda Joya sent a cross-pass from a corner kick to freshman Jamie Peters, giving the Lancers their first lead of the game, 4-3.
With one of the most dramatic finishes in Amat girl’s soccer history, the ladies advance to the CIF semifinals and will host the Chino Hills Huskies at Kiefer Stadium at 3 p.m.
