Ripon High is now in the driver’s seat towards capturing its sixth Trans-Valley League crown in 10 years.
The Indians (8-1TVL, 15-5) all but secured that top spot Tuesday with a 3-0 victory over Modesto Christian (6-2-1, 11-3-2).
“It was a revenge game for us,” said Ripon coach Jamie DeBruyn, whose team suffered its only league loss earlier at MC.
He also called this rematch a “pre-playoff game.”
The Indians scored in the 49th minute when midfielder Hailey Simmons hit Hailey Monroe on a nicely placed cross for the goal.
Ripon made it 2-0 in the 68th minute, adding some breathing room after Megan Harlan took a pass from Alayna Swilley and delivered a shot that was grabbed by the Crusader goalie but not secured, pulling her into the net.
The Indians added some insurance in 79th minute.
That’s when sophomore forward Cindy Alvarez, who had come away empty after eight straight scoring tries, delivered on a penalty kick from 30 yards out.
“I was a little bit off today,” Alvarez said. “This was a big game and we did what we had to do.”
Scoreless during the first half, the Crusaders controlled the early tempo.
It was shortlisted as Indians went on the attack.
Alvarez had a breakaway drive at the 25th minute mark but came up empty.
She tried crossing one over to Simmons, who saw that kick get gobbled up by the MC goalie.
“It was tough scoring in the first half with the wind going against us,” DeBruyn said.
Ripon was able to speed up the game in second half, especially with the wind blowing in its favor.
Strong defense also proved to be factor.
“As a group, this is the best (defense) we’ve played this year,” said DeBruyn, recognizing the likes of goal keeper Courtney Salmon and sweeper Lysette Gambia.
The Indians, in addition, had a scoring edge, outshooting MC on shots at goal, 18-6.

To contact reporter Vince Rembulat, e-mail at www.vrembulat@mantecabulletin.com.