AWC women’s soccer dominates IVC in season opener

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The Arizona Western Matadors wasted no time making a statement in their season opener, cruising to a 14-0 victory over local rival Imperial Valley College Friday night.

With head coach Victor Verdugo sidelined due to a red card suspension carried over from last year, assistants Kourtney Celaya and Joel Ibarra stepped in to lead IVC against the Matadors. But AWC's relentless attack proved too much for the Desert Warriors to handle.

The Matadors struck quickly, scoring five times in the opening 20 minutes and never looking back. Forward Reina Kasano had a monster night, finishing with four goals, while Asa Yamazaki added a hat trick and two assists to fuel the offensive onslaught.

Kasano got things rolling early when Yamazaki threaded a perfect pass to her strong side, slotting home the first of her four scores.

Minutes later, Yamazaki found Kanon Ozaki on a breakaway for a clean finish that pushed the lead to 4-0. By halftime, AWC already held a commanding 10-0 advantage.

Imperial Valley goalkeeper Azul Amador, a Central Spartan alum, was under siege all evening but still turned away several quality chances, including a diving save on a dangerous cross and a highlight kick stop against Kiana Knudson.

Despite her efforts, the Matadors' firepower was overwhelming.

AWC closed out the night with goals from Reika Yuba, Karen Sodeyama, and another pair from Kasano to seal the lopsided 14-0 final.

The win showcased the depth and attacking balance of Arizona Western, which tallied 21 shots while holding Imperial Valley without a single attempt.

The Matadors are back in action Saturday night, hosting North Idaho College as they look to build on their explosive start.

For Imperial Valley, the focus shifts to regrouping quickly as the season continues.