Irvine Valley's women's soccer team continued to prepare for the fast approaching start of Orange Empire Conference play with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Mt. San Jacinto on Tuesday at home.
Neither team got much going in the first half. Irvine Valley started strong in the second half and took the lead and Mt. San Jacinto finished the contest solidly to earn the tie.
Both squads stayed unbeaten on the season.
Irvine Valley improved its record to 2-0-2 overall, while Mt. San Jacinto went to 2-0-1.
The two teams combined for just four shots in a scoreless first half.
Irvine Valley picked up its play out of the break.
Sophomore forward Tiana Salazar, who scored the game-winning goal against LA Harbor last week, hit the crossbar with a shot.
The Lasers were able to keep the ball in the Mt. San Jacinto defensive area and a few seconds later sophomore midfielder Courtney Smith one-timed a pass from freshman forward Rosa Soto Aleman into the back of the net.
The goal put IVC ahead, 1-0.
Dimitra Tsambasis, Gabriella Chaname, Kimberly Mata and Destinee Jeaneatte each created chances for Mt. San Jacinto over the next 20 minutes.
The Eagles were able to tie the score in the 76th minute when Tsambasis scored on a through ball delivered by Kaylee Wolever.
Ryane McDevitt had an opportunity for Mt. San Jacinto and sophomore defender Celina Chang had a shot saved by Mt. San Jacinto keeper Amber Roberts in the closing minutes, but neither team could find the back of the net again.
Irvine Valley will play one more match before starting conference play. The Lasers host Pasadena City on Friday at 3 p.m.
The Lasers host Santiago Canyon next Tuesday in their conference opener.
