Varsity girls soccer defeats Los Altos in dominant fashion

Varsity girls soccer beat Los Altos 2-0 Monday, Jan. 31, making their Hacienda League score 7-1. 

The game started with a ceremonial kick by injured senior Yarita Chavez, who was unable to play this year as a result of her injury obtained last May. 

“I am really thankful that my team let me participate in that play,” Chavez said. “That was my last play in high school ever, since I’ve been injured since May of 2022.” 

The game started with Walnut’s offense making a goal attempt in the first two minutes. Both teams continued pushing hard, forward freshman Anisa Garay made a goal attempt and the ball ended up in Los Altos’ capacity. The Eagles attempted a shot, but goalkeeper senior Lily Dukes saved it. Middle senior Maya Cruz scored the first goal of the game after regaining control of the ball from the Los Altos defense. 

“This goal was really special to me because it was my senior night,” Cruz said. “Also, I don’t really get to score many goals in my position, so it was nice to be able to get one during the game.” 

With eight minutes left in the quarter, forward sophomore Vienna Alvarez scored a goal, making the score 2-0. Los Altos took two shots, one missing the goal and one saved by Dukes. The first half ended with a score of 2-0, Walnut. 

“Honestly, my goal was really unexpected. It was supposed to be a cross and it just turned into a goal, but I’m really happy,” Alvarez said. “It meant a lot to me to be able to score for Yari, as it was senior night and she’s one of the seniors I’m closest to.” 

The next half began with a slow Los Altos offense. They were unable to score any goals, though their defense prevented Walnut from scoring any goals as well. The game ended with a score of 2-0, on Walnut’s senior night. They will now compete in the first round of CIF games in the coming weeks. 

“I’m really looking forward to CIF. We made the semi-finals last season and we’re really hoping to advance even further this year,” Cruz said.