The Pirate soccer team came from behind to take the lead in the second half Thursday on the first day of the New Balance Showcase at the VC Sportsplex, but they could not hold. Cypress scored the final two goals to defeat Ventura 3-2. Alix Tirado and Alyssa Cornwell each scored for the Pirates. Despite the setback, there were positives to take from the game including the play of Ashley Tiscareno, Sofia Preciado and Elisa Merlos on the defensive end of the pitch.
The Chargers (1-0) opened up a quick lead in the fifth minute of play, and kept the pressure on the Pirates for the remainder of the first half.
Cornwell assisted the equalizer by Tirado seven minutes later from a throw ball in the attacking third of the field. Tirado controlled the pass and shot the ball high, off the goal keeper's outstretched hands and into the far corner of the net.
Cypress maintained offensive dominance for the remainder of the half, but Ventura (0-2) was able to withstand the pressure with the strong play of the backside of the defense. The half concluded with the sides level at 1-1.
The Pirates became the aggressors after halftime. Cornwell attacked the right side in the 46th minute, shooting a cross that deflected off a defender and into the back of the net for a 2-1 VC advantage.
Unfortunately, that would be the final goal for the orange and black. Cypress netted scores in the 56th and 69th minutes, and despite numerous chances, Ventura could not find the net again, falling by the 3-2 final margin.
Ventura had eight total shots on goal in the game, three from Cornwell and two from Tirado.
The Pirates conclude the New Balance Showcase on Saturday Sept. 3 with a high-noon contest against West Valley College at the Sportsplex.