PREP SOCCER ROUNDUP : Valencia, Brea-Olinda Keep Scoreless Streaks Going

Entering Tuesday’s game, the Valencia and Brea-Olinda girls’ soccer teams hadn’t been scored on in Orange League play and both left with their streaks intact, playing to a 0-0 tie at Brea-Olinda High.

The tie kept the Wildcats (5-6-3, 3-0-1) a half-game in front of Valencia (5-6-4, 2-0-2) as they pursue a second consecutive league championship.

Valencia entered the game with impressive credentials as well, finishing either first or second in the league standings since 1985 and qualifying for the playoffs each season since 1981.

Defense was a priority as the teams were limited to nine shots each.

Valencia fullbacks Casey West and Alicia Franklin teamed to break up several Wildcat scoring chances while Brea-Olinda’s Tracy Tremayne and Stacey Seiler used their quickness to beat the Tiger forwards to the ball.

Brea-Olinda’s best chance to score came six minutes into the second half when Katie O’Brien passed the ball ahead to Desiree Hitchcock, who had slipped past a Tiger defender. However, Hitchcock’s left-footer was aimed directly at Valencia goalkeeper Woodi Taylor, who made the save.

Valencia had a scoring opportunity with about five minutes remaining when Amy Ensman was awarded a free kick just outside the penalty box.

Ensman’s shot hit a wall of Brea defenders and bounced straight back giving her a second attempt. This time her shot got through the defense, but sailed inches above the crossbar.