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Rancho Cordova Independent

Lady Lancers Soccer Preparing for Metro League Play

Dec 18, 2024 09:25AM ● By James Darnell

Senior fullback Jennifer Ceja (11) passes the ball to midfielder Savannah Fennel (7) against Vista Del Lago.


RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - Despite getting off to a slow start to begin their season, the Cordova Lady Lancers varsity soccer team is feeling good as Metro League competition awaits after the new year.

Having lost their last two games after starting their season 2-2, the Lady Lancers (2-4 overall) have much room for improvement, according to head coach Charlie Gonzalez.

With that said, Gonzalez is encouraged by the glimpses of talent he has seen thus far.


Sophomore midfielder Amelia Nunn keeps the ball in play against Vista Del Lago.


"Things are OK but they could be better," Gonzalez said. "But I think we're headed in the right direction as soon as we fix a few little things."

Gonzalez stressed the importance of his team improving defensively, particularly getting back on the ball after an offensive set as a key to his team taking the next step. On a positive note, Gonzalez mentioned his team’s passing and communication offensively as bright spots.

When asked which players have made the biggest impact early on, Gonzalez quickly praised sophomore midfielder Makayla Pena, who leads the team with seven goals.


Senior midfielder Savannah Fennel defends Cordova’s goal against Del Campo.


"Extremely impressed," Gonzalez said of the youngster. "She works hard and she's in the right spots at the right times. She has a nice shot and she's been making the most of her opportunities. It's been great having her out there."

Additionally, junior midfielder Karen Gonzalez and junior goalie Alanna Thomas have been standouts thus far and figure to play key roles down the stretch. Thomas, who is averaging 2.0 saves per match on the season, was credited as being vital in a recent victory at home against Sheldon on Dec. 4. 

"In the game against Sheldon, she made some spectacular saves that kept us in the game," Gonzalez said. "Without her making those saves, we would have lost that game."


Cordova junior goalkeeper Alanna Thomas stops a shot on goal against Vista Del Lago. Photos by Rick Sloan


Team members will practice a few times during the upcoming Christmas break as they prepare for league play, which begins on Tuesday, Jan. 7 when McClatchy comes to Lancer Stadium for a 6:30 p.m. tilt. Gonzalez mentioned not wanting to take too much time off, as he knows the challenges coming their way with league play.

"It's going to be competitive and we have our work cut out for us," Gonzalez said. "We're excited for it."