It has been a difficult first month of the season for the Ventura College women's soccer team. After a promising season-opening victory on Aug. 28, the Pirates' struggled through growing pains, difficult opponents, and improvement cycles. The progress showed itself loud and clear on Friday as VC (2-5-4) defeated visiting Bakersfield 3-0 at the Sportsplex with Audrey Castillo netting the hat trick in the win.
Castillo got the Pirates on the board in the 12th minute, cashing in an assist by Karen Martinez for the 1-0 advantage. In the 34th, she turned a helper from Jasmin Ambriz into her second goal before scoring a third goal off an assist by Yamile Mondragon.
Ventura had 14 shots in the game overall with seven on goal. Pirate goal keeper Aracely Castro saved three shots on goal by the Renegades.
Ventura will return to the pitch on Tuesday Oct. 9, opening Western State Conference North Division play against Allan Hancock College. Kickoff at the Sportsplex is scheduled for 6:00 pm.