Falcons Clinch Top Seed with Back-to-Back Shutouts, Advance to Championship Final
The Folsom Lake College women's soccer team continued their historic run with two dominant wins, securing their place in the championship game this Friday, November 14, as the No. 1 seed. The Falcons remained unbeaten on the season (19–0–1) after posting back-to-back shutouts—first routing American River 6–0 and then grinding out a 1–0 victory over Modesto.
Falcons Soar Past American River, 6–0
On Friday night, the Falcons delivered one of their most complete performances of the season, overwhelming American River from start to finish.
Folsom Lake wasted no time asserting control, with Madi Stroh opening the scoring in the 19th minute. Kamryn Lee doubled the lead just six minutes later, and Skylar Ranesses made it 3–0 before halftime off a feed from Stroh.
The second half was more of the same. Lucy Miller and Maryn Rogers each found the back of the net to stretch the lead to five, before Maisie McVeigh capped off the night with a late strike in the 89th minute.
The Falcons outshot American River 10–1, never allowing a single shot on goal. Goalkeepers Bitsy Wagner, Lola Ballard, and Hailey Yates combined for the team's 12th shutout of the year.
"We played our brand of soccer—fast, connected, and unselfish."
Defensive Grit Seals the Win Over Modesto
Four days later, Folsom Lake faced a tougher test against a disciplined Modesto squad—but once again, the Falcons found a way.
Midfielder Sadie Burns delivered the game's only goal in the 12th minute, finishing a clean assist from Rachael George to give FLC an early 1–0 lead. From there, the defense took over.
Led by defenders Kamryn Lee, Josie Reynolds, and Amelia Millstone, the backline kept Modesto's offense at bay, limiting them to just three shots all afternoon. Goalkeeper Hailey Yates made two key saves to preserve her fourth solo shutout of the season.
Despite generating 11 shots and controlling possession, Folsom Lake couldn't find a second goal—but their composure and defensive organization ensured the victory.
"This was a championship-type game," said Coach Donny Ribuado. "We had to grind it out, and I'm proud of the way we stayed patient and composed. These are the kind of wins that prepare us for Friday."
Falcons Flying into the Finals
The two victories capped off a perfect stretch of conference and crossover play, solidifying Folsom Lake as the top seed heading into the Championship Final on home turf this Friday.
Through 20 games, the Falcons have outscored opponents 82–6 and posted 16 shutouts, boasting one of the stingiest defenses and most dynamic attacks in the state.
With momentum on their side and a spotless record to protect, Folsom Lake will look to finish what has been a dream season with one more win—and a championship trophy.