Following a two-game winning streak, the soccer team lost 1-0 to the Allan Hancock College Bulldogs at Shepard Stadium Friday.
It was the first time in 19 years that the Brahmas lost to the Bulldogs, according to head coach Adolfo Perez.
“We’re used to winning here,” Perez said. “I’ve never had a team in my life where we play great on the road and not very good at home.”
The game started 11 minutes after the scheduled kickoff time because officials were late to arrive on the field.
Brahmas started on the attack in the first minute when Amelia Weckhurst’s shot went wide. They would have multiple opportunities to take the lead, but failed to capitalize. The game was scoreless at the half.
Defender Jessica Palmer had a shot on goal that missed during the first half.
“I should have controlled the ball better and had a better first touch,” Palmer said. “I should have improved almost everything.”
Diana Millan won a free kick for the Brahmas in the second half, which ended up being another missed opportunity to score a goal. Millan said she and her teammates didn’t perform well.
“We didn’t do our job,” Milan said.
Elizabeth Aldana scored the winning goal for the Bulldogs 36 minutes into the second half. She beat Joanna Cerda and put in the rebound after the ball hit the post.
Palmer said the goal being late into the second half affected the team’s attitude during the rest of the game.
“After they scored, everybody seemed discouraged,” Palmer said.
The Brahmas hustled in an attempt to tie the game during the last ten minutes. Sofia Caparelli executed two corner kicks after the Bulldogs’ goal, but neither were put away.
Perez also attributed the loss to playing on the turf at Shepard Stadium. The team usually plays on the Pit, a grass field, but it has had to play all of its games this season on turf. The field at Shepard Stadium is larger and rougher than the Pit.
“I really believe this field does not suit us, but there’s nothing I can do,” Perez said.
Three players were seen for injuries during the second half. Perez said that players should fight through the discomfort and not allow minor injuries to affect their performance.
“They have to be stronger mentally,” Perez said. “If you have a broken leg, you cannot play. But if you have a little boo-boo, you should be able to play.”
The Brahmas’ record is now 5-6. The Brahmas travel to Santa Barbara City College Friday. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.
