The Pirates' women's soccer team scored twice in the second half Thursday to come from behind to defeat San Francisco 2-1 to complete the opening day of the New Balance Community College Showcase at the Sportsplex. Elisa Merlos netted the equalizer and Andrea Ibarra connected on a penalty kick for the game-winner for VC (1-1). Sibella Donnelly came on in relief in goal to hold the Rams scoreless in the second half to preserve the win.
For the second straight game, the Pirates yielded a goal in the first two minutes of play. CCSF netted a goal in the second minute, a quick rebound and loft shot into the net for the early 1-0 advantage. The score remained throughout the remainder of the first half.
Merlos got the orange and black on the board in the 58th minute. She connected on a stunning shot from 30-yards out to level the count at 1-1.
In the 65th minute, Ibarra slotted a penalty kick into the lower left corner of the goal to put Ventura ahead 2-1.
Donnelly had a pair of saves in goal to preserve the Pirates' first win of the season.
VC maintained much of the control in the game, totaling 14 shots with 11 on goal. San Francisco, meanwhile, recorded 10 shots with four on target.
Ventura will close the New Balance Showcase on Saturday Sept. 2 hosting West Valley at 3:00 pm.