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Van Vliets early goal holds up in RC victory
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Ripon Christian survived its toughest challenge of the Southern League so far on Friday, warding off Orestimba 1-0 in Newman thanks to some fortunate bounces.

Cynthia Van Vliet was at the right place and the right time on the game’s only goal, as Abby Buitrago’s corner-kick cross deflected off of an Orestimba defender in the ninth minute.

Although there was a lack of scoring there was no shortage of action throughout. Ripon Christian (10-0-0 SL, 13-6 overall) was in control for the majority of the game until the Warriors (7-3, 10-4) cranked up the pressure on the attacking end for the final 15 minutes.

Goalie Bryanna Heida (seven saves) did her part in keeping the sheet clean for RC, stuffing Ariana Jorstad’s breakaway attempt with about five minutes to go. Orestimba had another great look but failed to take advantage of an open-net situation as the ball caromed off the corner of the goal post.

It was the third game in four days for Ripon Christian but did well to fight through the fatigue.

“Orestimba is a good, tenacious team,” Ripon Christian coach Kevin Tameling said. “After scoring early I’m proud of our team’s resolve and perseverance to keep a one-goal lead for most of the game. Our captain in the midfield, Sam Carvalho, epitomizes this mindset and is the engine of our team.”