Girls' Soccer Playoffs: Aliso Niguel Beats No. 1 Capo Valley

It would seem unlikely that Aliso Niguel will face a tougher time in the Southern Section Girls' Soccer Championship than it did in the Division 1 semifinals.

The Wolverines faced an early deficit to top-seeded Capistrano Valley, but scored in the closing minutes to take a 3-2 victory Tuesday against an opponent that hadn't lost in the previous 21 games.

With its victory, Aliso (15-2-6) will try to win its second championship in a row. Coach Randy Dodge's team also won a title in 2001.

The Wolverines will face West Hills Chaminade (18-3-5), which defeated Studio City Harvard-Westlake on penalty kicks, 3-2, after a 1-1 tie. The Southern Section office will release the time and date of the finals on Wednesday.

Aliso's winning play came in the 77th of 80 minutes. Sophomore Sarah Roberts' direct kick was legged into the net by Lindsay Doyle.

Capistrano Valley's last best effort at a goal, a header by Alex Hussar—who had an assist on Samantha Celani's game-tying goal—was saved by Aliso goalkeeper Riley Sims. It was the last of five saves by Sims.

Celani scored both of Capo Valley's goal, giving the Cougars a 1-0 lead in the first half and tying it in the 63rd minute.

About 12 minutes earlier, Aliso freshman Myranda Baca scored from long distance for a 2-1 lead.

Lauren Miller also scored for Aliso Niguel. Aubrie Coley had seven saves for Capo Valley.

Tuesday Playoff Scoreboard

Division 1 semifinals

Aliso Niguel 3, (1) Capistrano Valley 2

West Hills Chaminade 1, Harvard-Westlake 1 (Chaminade wins on penalty kicks, 3-2)

Finals, TBA