SRJC women’s soccer team scored a goal within the first minute of play last Tuesday and never looked back as they defeated De Anza 5-1.

An almost entirely new roster, with only three returning players, didn’t seem to have any effect as SRJC started the game off in complete control by neutralizing De Anza’s offense early with aggressive play by defenders Cami James and Jazmine Whitlock.

Midway through the first-half, momentum looked as though it was beginning to shift in De Anza’s favor as the Lady Bear Cubs received two offside penalties which were followed by a De Anza goal.

With some quick adjustments and communication, SRJC picked up the tempo and resorted back to the physical style of play they showed earlier in the half.

Accurate passes and breakaway speed led to a long goal by Selam Solomon to close out the first half with SRJC leading 2-1.

SRJC began the second half with a few adjustments up front and continued its aggressiveness from the first.

Freshman Lauren Curtin put on a show in the second half. Curtin’s speed and ball-control were too much for De Anza’s defense as she scored two goals for SRJC.

SRJC’s physical play and speed throughout the entire game allowed the Bear Cubs to control the pace of the game and De Anza never recovered.

This win improves the Lady Bear Cubs’ record to 2-0-2 for the season.

“It’s nice to start off at home with a win, especially against a tough team like De Anza,” said SRJC coach Emiria Salzmann.

The Bear Cubs’ next home game is Sept. 28 at 3:30 p.m. against American River.