NEWMAN — Sophomore Martin Sanchez recorded a hat trick, leading first-place Orestimba to a 4-0 victory over visiting Ripon Christian on Tuesday.

The Warriors (5-0 Southern League, 9-4 overall) took charge early, pouring in two goals in the first seven minutes. Hugo Martinez also scored for Orestimba.

“I’m seeing defensive miscues less and less, but we had some again today that cost us,” Ripon Christian coach Keith Terpsma said.

Goalie Lukas Vermeulen finished with nine saves and did all he could to keep Ripon Christian (1-4, 3-9) in the match, but Orestmba relented in the second half after the Knights had built some momentum on the attacking third.

The Warriors scored the back-breaking third goal in the 50th minute and iced the win for good in the 66th off a set piece. Despite the defeat, Terpsma came away encouraged.

“I saw a team that could win the game in those 10 minutes,” he said of his team’s improved effort late in the first half. “We started the second half strong as well, but we couldn’t capitalize on our chances at goal.”

Ripon Christian looks to keep pace with the league’s front runners Thursday when it takes on Denair (1-4, 6-5) on the road.