San Marcos erupted for six unanswered goals and stormed to a 16-4 win over Santa Barbara High in the championship game of the Channel League Tournament on Wednesday at the Santa Barbara pool.
‘The girls came in with a lot of energy today,” said San Marcos coach Chuckie Roth. “We had a good first quarter but felt we could make some better offensive decisions. As the game went on. we fell into more of a rhythm and played with more team awareness and improved throughout the match.”
Madison Sparre started and ended the scoring run. Reagan McEachen, Ava Stryker, Mia Amberger and Brooke Ingram followed with goals.
The San Marcos defense didn’t allow a goal in the second period.
“Santa Barbara had a great game plan and did a great job controlling the clock in the first and early second period. Our speed and counter attack opened up some great opportunities,” said Roth.
Goalie Elaia Hamilton stopped nine Santa Barbara shots. Lauren Schwitzer played the fourth quarter and made three saves.
Stryker scored four goals to lead nine goal scorers for San Marcos. Kylie Rammeson had three goals and Sparre and Amberger each scored two goals. McEachen drew three penalty shots.
“I am really happy for this group. They are great ambassadors of culture and positivity,” said Roth. “They are confident and multi talented, but most of all they are great people who will impact our world in positive ways.”
The Royals finish the regular season at 17-9 and expect to be among the top eight Division 1 teams to play in the Open Division for the CIF playoffs.
Santa Barbara will play in the Division 1 playoff bracket.
Layla Szymczak had all four goals to lead the Dons on Wednesday. Allison Bartholomew earned five exclusions, had two assists, and two steals.
“I am proud of the girls for making the championship game,” said Santa Barbara coach Mark Walsh. “We have a talented and tough group of girls. We are excited for the Division 1 playoffs to begin.”
— Noozhawk sports editor Barry Punzal can be reached at bpunzal@noozhawk.com. Follow Noozhawk Sports on Twitter: @NoozhawkSports. Connect with Noozhawk on Facebook.