San Rafael’s Lopez Stuns Rivals: How One Player’s Heroics Ignited an Unforgettable MCAL Soccer Showdown!

In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Yasmin Lopez netted the decisive goal in the 53rd minute on Tuesday evening, leading the fourth-seeded San Rafael High Bulldogs to a 1-0 victory over the No. 5 seed, Archie Williams High, in the Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) girls soccer playoffs. This win propels the Bulldogs, who now hold an impressive record of 12-1-9 and 2-1-5 in the MCAL, into the semifinals, where they will face the top-seeded Redwood High on Thursday.

In another semifinal matchup, the No. 6 seed Tam High edged out Marin Catholic after a nail-biting 1-1 draw that extended into double overtime. The game culminated in a penalty shootout, securing a chance for Tam High, which boasts a record of 5-11-5 and 3-4-1 in the league, to compete against the top-seeded Branson on Thursday.

Meanwhile, in a dominating performance, the Marin Academy Wildcats shut out Head Royce 3-0 on Tuesday, further solidifying their control at the top of the BCL standings. The Wildcats currently have an impressive record of 13-2-2 and remain undefeated in league play at 7-0-2.

Basketball Highlights

In men's basketball, a standout performance by Darius Best, who scored a team-high 22 points, helped Dominican University achieve a commanding 104-91 home victory over Azusa Pacific on Monday night. The Penguins, now standing at 14-8 overall and 9-7 in the PacWest, showcased depth in their scoring, with five players reaching double figures. Nick Medeiros contributed 20 points, while Michael Wilson, Austin Johnson, and Stephen Ransom added 17, 14, and 11 points, respectively. After overcoming a double-digit deficit in the first half, the Penguins are set to host Biola on Thursday.

On the women’s side, Dominican University also found success, narrowly defeating Azusa Pacific 69-60 in a back-and-forth battle. Mahliya Wilson led the charge with 18 points and seven rebounds, while bench players Janiya Sawyer and Isobel Crosswhite added 16 and 11 points, respectively. With a record of 17-5 and 11-5 in the PacWest, the Penguins continue to build momentum as the season progresses.

Upcoming Events in Running

For running enthusiasts, the long-anticipated return of the Tamalpa Couples Relay is scheduled for Valentine’s Day, February 14, at 9 a.m. This race, which has seen 40 consecutive years of participation (with the exception of one during the pandemic), will make its comeback at the Vintage Oaks shopping center in Novato. Originally organized by The Good Sport running store, the Couples Relay features a unique format where women run two miles before tagging off to their male partners. Throughout its history, the event has been graced by some of the region's most prominent runners, including all-time fastest Dipsea Race performers like Ron Elijah and Peggy Smyth.

The Tamalpa Runners took over organization of the race in later years, transitioning between several venues, and now settling back at Vintage Oaks. The 2026 course will feature a flat out-and-back route on a traffic-free path alongside the SMART tracks. Teams can compete in multiple categories, from open to youth, with prizes awarded based on combined ages, ensuring a competitive yet fun atmosphere for all participants. Interested runners can find more information and register at www.tamalparunners.org/couplesrelays.

As the season progresses across various sports, local teams are encouraged to report scores, statistics, and game details via email to [email protected] or on Twitter at @marinij_sports. Anything submitted after the typical 8 p.m. deadline will be included in the following day's updates, ensuring fans remain informed about their favorite teams.