After starting the season with a new head coach, the Escalon varsity soccer girls are back under the guidance of longtime coach Jamie Peoples, who has returned to the post.

She took the girls to the Ripon Christian Tournament this past week, playing games both Thursday and Friday, Dec. 27 and 28.

They opened up with Oakmont and lost a 2-1 decision, with Alondra Martinez notching the Escalon goal.

“Leticia Gutierrez had six saves that game and five the next,” Peoples noted of her goalie. “We lost to Patterson 4-2.”

In the game against the Tigers, Alexis Barron had both goals, with Mya Beary contributing the assists.

“Both games we played well but couldn’t get the result,” said Peoples. “I’ve seen a huge improvement since I’ve been back for two weeks. The girls have so much potential.”

The final game for the Lady Cougars in the tournament was a win against Orestimba.

“We played to a 2-2 tie in regulation and won in penalty kicks,” Peoples explained of the thriller. “Mya Beary had both goals. Leti had three saves. She also had three PK saves. Alondra Martinez, Mya Beary and Alexis Barron all made PKs to get the win.”

Martinez was an All-Tournament Team selection for the event.

“I am hoping to build on that win,” Peoples adding of wrapping up the tournament with a victory. “I’m so happy to be back and I am hoping to make the most of what is left of the season because these girls deserve positive results.”