Lia Gularte’s SHOCKING soccer performance: Can you believe she scored TWICE in this nail-biter against SLV?

In a decisive match that showcased their growing prowess, the Santa Cruz High girls soccer team defeated the San Lorenzo Valley Cougars 3-0 on Tuesday, keeping their dreams of a Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League (SCCAL) title very much alive. Senior forward Lia Gularte was the star of the show, scoring two goals and increasing her season tally to an impressive eight goals, leading her team in scoring.

Allie Rodriguez added another goal, contributing to the Cardinals' strong performance. The victory marked an important step for Santa Cruz, which has now scored multiple goals in nine of their matches this season. The team's offensive momentum can largely be attributed to the dynamic play of Gularte and sophomore Harper Ryono, who also made a significant impact with two assists in the game. “Lia’s finishing abilities have come a long way in the last few years,” said Cardinals coach Poul Schiebel. “She has always had the skill and speed, but now she’s added composure in front of the goal. She gets the job done without needing to be flashy.”

Schiebel also expressed pride in Ryono's development. “Harper is really starting to find her feet in her sophomore year. She’s reading the game much better, slowing it down, and finding crucial breaking line through balls,” he noted. Ryono's growth is evident and has been a key factor in the team's offensive strategies.

Goalkeeper Ari Flores played a vital role in the victory, making four saves and helping the Cardinals secure their seventh clean sheet of the season, showcasing the team's strong defensive capabilities. The Cougars' goalie Jenna Stover also had a commendable performance, with five saves, but was unable to prevent the Cardinals from finding the net.

With only five games remaining in the regular season, the Cardinals sit in second place, trailing only the defending champions, Aptos. The upcoming match against Aptos on Thursday at 7 p.m. will be crucial, as both teams are vying for the top position in the league.

The Cougars, despite the loss, showed moments of resilience and competitiveness. San Lorenzo Valley's players, including Evelyn Bird and Phoebe Owens, fought hard but ultimately could not match the Cardinals' intensity and execution on the field. As the SCCAL season progresses, every match counts, and both teams will be looking to strengthen their positions for a chance at the playoffs.

As the second half of the season approaches, Coach Schiebel remains optimistic. “Another complete game by the girls,” he said. “They’re growing in confidence with each game, and you can’t ask for more than that. The team is working hard every day at training, and the results are showing in games.” This sentiment reflects a broader theme in high school sports—development and teamwork often lead to success, and for the Santa Cruz Cardinals, this is evident as they push toward their goals.

For local readers, the upcoming match against Aptos will be one to watch, as it will not only test the Cardinals' grit but also serve as a pivotal moment in the league standings. With their confidence growing and a solid performance against San Lorenzo Valley behind them, the Cardinals are more determined than ever to make a mark this season.