Girls soccer team continues playoff chase

Jim Vallet, for the Fernley Reporter

The Fernley High School girls soccer team continued its playoff quest with a road 4-3 victory over Yerington on Thursday, Oct. 17. 

The Lions opened the scoring, but the Vaqueros soon evened the score. The two teams traded goals until, with the game tied 3-3 and less than two minutes remaining in the game, Jorgy Smith netted the eventual game winner. Other players scoring for Fernley were Shona Garman, Liliana Rodarte, and Alanna McGrath.

“It was a good game,” coach Tammi Valentine said. “As for the playoffs, we are in second place in our division right now and it all depends on how the girls play if we stay there or not. Right now, the playoffs are in our future if the girls continue to play well, although it also depends on how other teams play as well. But, our girls are really connecting with the ball and moving it down the field to make plays so we can score. We have a good chance and I feel the girls have worked hard to get there and I am proud of them.” 

Assistant coaches are often overlooked, but Valentine wants her assistants to be recognized for what they do.

“My assistant coaches are Claudia and Maria Sanchez,” Valentine said. “Maria played for UNR. They are great assets to the team and bringing new drills to help the girls. We are all on the same page when it comes to coaching. I enjoy coaching with them and I hope that together we can continue to build the program.”

The next home game for the surging Vaqueros is Saturday, Oct. 26 at 11 a.m. against Dayton. Valentine made it clear where she stands.

“The girls have really worked hard, and we would really like for everyone to come out and support us,” she said.