Getting on the pitch to kick off their season, Escalon’s varsity Lady Cougars took a tough loss to Linden to start the campaign.

The contest on Friday, Nov. 21 saw the girls play a strong game, but they had trouble finding the net.

“We had 10 shots on goal in the game,” said assistant coach Jim Ball. “Linden was able to take a 2-0 lead at the half.”

Jasmine Barron got Escalon on the board in the second half, scoring a goal off an assist from Yareli Cervantes. Linden also scored one in the second half, for the 3-1 final.

“Georgia Northcutt had a great game for us,” Ball added. “She has an endless motor and made great play after great play.”

Against Riverbank in their second preseason game on Nov. 25, the outcome was a winning one for Escalon. They shut out the Lady Bruins, 3-0.

“The girls came out hungry,” the coach pointed out. “We put pressure on them from the start and never let up.”

Escalon had a 2-0 lead at the half on goals by Barron and Adriana Romero. Barron found the net again in the second half to provide the 3-0 margin of victory.

“In total we took 22 shots on goal,” Ball said of the strong offensive performance.

The defense was solid as well.

“Payton Abbott had a standout game in only her second time as keeper,” Ball said. “She made 19 saves. Additionally, her ability to kick from her box, allowed us to turn defense into offense.”