The Brahma offense was shut-down in a season-ending defeat at home against the team’s divisional opponent, Moorpark Raiders in the second round of the Southern California Regional Playoffs, Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2015.
After a strong regular season, in which the Brahmas (13-1-6) finished first in the Western State Conference – North, the team’s dreams of a state-title were vanquished as the Raiders (11-2-7) held off the Brahmas, 1-0.
After the game, Pierce head coach, Adolfo Perez crouched in the middle of the field alone and in disbelief as he watched his team’s season unfold in a heart-breaking ending. Emotions ran high for the players as some were in tears.
“It’s tough — I’ve been here 15 years and this was probably the most special set of group we’ve had,” Perez said. “I really thought this year… we had a team that could possibly compete for a state-title, and that’s what hurts the most.”
After playing the Raiders twice in the regular season and tying both times, third time was the charm for Moorpark behind the legs of forward, Breanna Pilkington, who scored early in the first half.
“We just needed to show them who the real champions were,” Pilkington said. “We came out strong and we knew we had to finish it.”
During the first half, the Raiders were able to put pressure on the Brahma defense as Moorpark controlled the ball for majority of the half on offense.
“I think we sucked in the first half,” Perez said. “I think we got complacent. They out hustled us they outplayed us.”
In the second half, the Brahmas came out with a higher intensity on offense and defense. The Brahmas had more shot on goal attempts and corner kicks, but were unable to score when the opportunities presented itself.
The half was defined by spectacular saves by both teams’ goalkeepers: Taylor Hogues, for the Raiders and Cindy Godina, for the Brahmas.
“I’m sad that our season had to be cut right here, but I’m happy about how are team did this whole entire season,” Godina, said.
Perez said that Godina has been one of the best goalkeepers the team has ever had.
In the end, Perez said the talent the team had will end up as an underachieving team in a rollercoaster season.
Many of the Brahmas remain optimistic about the team next season hoping to build on the success Pierce had this year.
The Brahmas finishes the year with a record of, 13-2-6. While the the Raiders continue onto the semifinals at 12-2-7.
