The Folsom Lake College Falcons have solidified their dominance in women’s soccer, claiming their second consecutive 3C2A State Championship with a thrilling 2-1 victory over the Cypress College Chargers on Sunday. In a match that saw both teams battling fiercely for every inch of the pitch, Folsom Lake’s early offensive burst proved to be the difference.
The championship game kicked off under sunny skies at American River College, with both teams coming in boasting stellar seasons. The Falcons (23-1-2) wasted no time making their mark. In the 10th minute, forward Grace Pratt latched onto a precise pass from midfielder Kamaya Yazzie and coolly slotted the ball past Cypress goalkeeper Sofia Lopez to open the scoring. The early goal gave the Falcons the momentum they needed to control the first half.
Just before halftime, the Falcons struck again. In the 44th minute, Madi Stroh found herself in the right place at the right time, capitalizing on a penalty kick by firing a powerful shot into the net, doubling Folsom Lake’s lead. The Falcons carried their 2-0 advantage into halftime, while the Chargers were left scrambling to regroup.
Cypress (21-2-3) came out with renewed energy in the second half, pressing high and testing Folsom Lake goalkeeper Linnea Sybersma, who stood tall under pressure. The Chargers finally broke through in the 58th minute when Megan Alcantara buried a penalty kick into the back of the net, cutting the deficit to 2-1. Despite the Chargers’ relentless attack in the final minutes, the Falcons’ defense, anchored by Sybersma’s four key saves, held firm.
“Resilience and preparation were key for us today,” said Falcons head coach Donny Ribaudo. “The team showed incredible composure, especially in those closing minutes. To win back-to-back championships is a testament to their hard work and unity.”
Key Performers
- Grace Pratt: Opened the scoring early, providing the Falcons with the spark they needed.
- Madi Stroh: Delivered the game-winning goal in clutch fashion, showcasing her poise under pressure.
- Linnea Sybersma: Recorded four crucial saves in the second half to secure the victory.
Despite being outshot 11-10, Folsom Lake’s efficiency in the first half and strong defensive organization throughout the game made the difference. Cypress applied heavy pressure in the second half, earning five corner kicks and forcing several fouls, but they could not find the equalizer.
A Legacy in the Making
This championship solidifies Folsom Lake as a powerhouse in the 3C2A, with their second straight title adding to an already remarkable program legacy. For the graduating sophomores, it’s a storybook ending to their community college careers. For the underclassmen, it’s motivation to continue building on this legacy.
“This win isn’t just for us; it’s for everyone who’s ever been a part of this program,” said Ribaudo. “We’re proud to bring this trophy back to Folsom.”
As the Falcons celebrated on the field, their fans erupted in cheers, knowing they had witnessed history. With their repeat title, Folsom Lake cements its place as one of the premier teams in the state, leaving their mark as a dynasty in the making.
