A pair goals from long distance carried Millikan past Wilson 2-0 at home on Thursday night and pushed the Rams to the top of the Moore League standings.
Wilson (2-1, 2-1) dominated possession and outshot Millikan 12-4 with 10 shots on goal, but the Rams defense limited the Bruins to half chances and sophomore goalkeeper Alicia Calderon made the 10 saves for the clean sheet.
Millikan (2-1, 2-0) took the lead in the 15th minute when junior Alyssa Reyes won the ball at midfield and went down the flank before lofting a shot from about 25 yards out into the far side netting. Sophomore Natalie Paulson doubled the lead in the 45th minute with another lob shot from outside the 18-yard box.
“Those moments were created off our counter attack and not having the possession we would’ve liked,” Millikan coach Tino Nunez said. “Credit to Wilson, they do a good job putting pressure on you.”
The Rams defense of junior right back Gretchen Backer, junior center back Lauren Van Every and sophomore center back Danielle Paulson, senior left back Caitlin Namoc and sophomore defensive midfielder Josie English played phenomenal team defense in front of Calderon to keep the Bruins away from goal.
“Defensively I’m really proud of this group,” Nunez said. “They really fight and sacrifice their bodies. That was a big question mark coming into the season and they’re doing a great job.”
Millikan beat Long Beach Poly 2-1 last week when it survived a second half barrage from the Jackrabbits before Reyes scored a late game winner.
“That’s two league favorites with a lot a talent and returning players, so to come out and get results early on is great,” Nunez said. “It sets you up and you’re on pace to win.”
