The Warriors (3-2) have struggled with the injury bug since the start of the season.
It appeared to strike again.
With its lack of depth becoming a glaring weakness, the women’s soccer team suffered a tough 2-0 loss to undefeated San Bernardino Valley College last Friday.
“Every game we are missing key players,” John Britton, coach, said.
The Warriors defeated San Diego Mesa Tuesday 2-1 to turn things around. Injuries though remain a concern. The team’s next game will be Monday at 4 p.m. against Cuesta College.
Four of the team’s usual starters were unavailable for the game due to injury.
It didn’t help that another Warrior went down with an injury in the game.
“For who we were playing and all of our injuries, we still played hard and kept fighting,” Jaymie Baquero, assistant coach, said. “Credit to San Bernardino Valley College, they are a really strong team. They have not lost yet and they tied against the current state champions.”
The San Bernardino offensive attack took advantage, striking early and scoring a goal in the second minute of the game. The Warriors also allowed a second goal in the 70th minute.
It hasn’t gotten easier, with the Warriors playing in one of the toughest conferences.
“Just as with the men’s team, the women’s team plays in the toughest conference in all of Southern California,” Britton said.
Baquero added that although the injuries have been piling up, it should not be an excuse to lose games.
“Even though we were missing quite a few players, I don’t like to make excuses. A 2-0 loss is still a 2-0 loss and I still don’t like to lose,” Baquero said.
Regardless, the women’s team can only hope to remain competetive while dealing with the injuries as key players slowly begin to return.
“Even though there are things we can’t control we try and stay positive,” Baquero said. “But, we still have to point out what we need to improve on for the next practice or game and we move forward. We can bounce back.”
Some players have stepped up and filled in roles, which both coaches said is a very encouraging sign.
“The players who have gone in or those who have started have done very well,” Britton said. “It is encouraging now that they have gotten playing time. They have the potential to get better.”
Despite the injuries, Baquero said the team is still strong enough to compete and win games.
“We played well for 88 minutes. Unfortunately soccer is 90 minutes and our two mental breakdowns cost us,” Baquero said. We’ll bounce back. It’ll be a battle, but we’ll be all right.”