Senior goalkeeper Alanna Thomas listens intently during halftime against Kennedy. Photo by Rick Sloan

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - Cordova Lady Lancers’ senior goalie Alanna Thomas is putting up some impressive numbers in her final season. 

Despite the team struggling, having a 3-11-1 overall record including a 0-6 Metro League mark at press time, Thomas has been a standout thus far. Her 71 saves through 12 games played ranks atop the Metro League rankings and is good for second place within all of the Sac Joaquin Section Division II. Each of the Lady Lancers’ three victories this season came in shutout wins in which Thomas was able to hold opposing teams scoreless at the net. Her contributions have not gone unnoticed by Cordova head coach Charlie Gonzalez, who recognizes her impact on the program.

Senior goalkeeper Alanna Thomas defends the goal during a match against Kennedy. Photo by Rick Sloan

“She’s a senior and has made a lot of connections with her teammates,” Gonzalez said. “The girls know that goalkeeper is one of the hardest positions to play, so a lot of the girls look up to her. We know how valuable she is to us.”

In her junior season last winter, Thomas led the Metro League in saves (46), playing in 13 games. Her ability to consistently reject shots on goal has been a huge part of the Lady Lancers' defensive approach and highlights her mindset on the pitch. 

Senior goalkeeper Alanna Thomas makes a free kick during a match against Kennedy. Photo by Rick Sloan

“She’s put in the work,” Gonzalez said. “From last year to this year she's done a lot of training. She’s very confident in herself this year. She has confidence in her defense which has also given her more confidence in herself.”

Gonzalez also mentioned that Thomas intends on playing soccer collegiately at American River College next year, with her coach saying that she certainly has the capability of playing at the next level. With four games remaining on the Lady Lancers’ schedule at press time, Thomas certainly will rack up quite a few more saves at the net in her senior season before it's all said and done.