By Robert Balajadia

The Okkodo Bulldogs used a quick start a strong finish to dispatch the young St. Paul Warriors 6-0 in girls soccer action Wednesday night at the Bulldogs home field. Okkodo’s Ariya Cruz scored two goals in the game, including the games first goal just three minutes in the game.

Okkodo held just a 1-0 lead heading into the half, but erupted for five goals in the second half to close out the Warriors.

The Bulldogs were knocking on the door with plenty potential goals in the first half but had a tough time getting through the Warriors goalie. Okkodo began to settle down in the second half scoring a goal within the first five minutes as Kelly Medler tallied her first goal, the second of the game. Moments later, Cruz scored her second goal, the fourth of the game.

Bulldogs’ Jestyne Sablan and Joy Pangilinan fight for a jump ball. (photo by Robert Balajadia)

“We knew that we could’ve scored more in the first half. We picked up our game and just relaxed because we kept shooting. We were more relaxed in the second half and it made us get our passes through and better shots on goal,” stated Cruz on the big second half.

Juliena Taitano received a corner kick and score the third goal for the Bulldogs as the close out rally ensued. Ke’ann Castro then added to the fifth goal in the closing minutes of the game after knocking at the door for the entire contest.

Jestyne Sablan added the final goal of the day after scoring off a rebound shot where she hit the crossbar and the ball came right back to her. Sablan took a deep shot that sailed over the Warrior defense and goalie to net their sixth and final goal.

Okkodo improves to 2-2-1 while getting out of the losing column.

“We talk about how better we are this year and we knew that we had to take advantage of the chance we had today. We know that seeding is based on goal differential so we had to keep getting our goals in and we knew he had to do that, and we did,” said Cruz on improving their record.

Girls soccer action continues Thursday with a big game between the Southern Dolphins and Sanchez Sharks.

PHOTO GALLERY:

Bulldogs Ariya Cruz passes a ball down field. (photo by Robert Balajadia)

Bulldogs’ Jestyne Sablan tracks down a ball down field. (photo by Robert Balajadia)

Warriors’ Joy Pangilinan attempts a shot at goal. (photo by Robert Balajadia)

Shania Bulala works against the Warriors defender. (photo by Robert Balajadia)

Bulldogs’ Juliena Taitano battles Warriors Philana Lopez for possession of the ball. (photo by Robert Balajadia)

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