Arvada – Gearing up for another shot at an elusive state title has become systematic for the Ralston Valley Mustangs.
If they do make it to their second consecutive Class 4A title game this month, it just might be because of some fresh faces.
The fourth-ranked Mustangs (14-1) played their usual tough defense Wednesday against Wheat Ridge, but the attacking duo of freshman Hayley Coniglio and sophomore Evi Ranson combined for the only goal in a 1-0 nonleague victory at the North Area Athletic Complex.
Coniglio earned and converted a penalty kick in the 48th minute when she was brought down after a 40-yard run. The defense, led by all-state goalie Theresa Bagby, gave up just one shot on goal against the 5A Farmers (9-4-1).
“She knows the game; she’s very controlled; she hustles; she gives it her all and the girls love her,” Mustangs coach Stephanie Carpenter said of Coniglio.
For the goal, Coniglio burst through the Farmers’ back line, banging shoulders with Silvana DelPiccolo before shrugging her off just outside the penalty area. Defenders Keani Garcia and Kim Ammon converged, and Coniglio had her feet taken out atop the 6-yard box for a clear penalty.
Ranson, who drew a red card with 43 seconds remaining, started the entire process when she cut in front of the Farmers sweeper at midfield and flicked the ball to catch Coniglio in stride.
It was the Mustangs’ third straight victory since being thrashed 6-2 by fellow 4A contender Cheyenne Mountain. Bagby made one save and cut out numerous passes as the Mustangs, state finalists in 2006, notched their 12th shutout of the season.
“I am out there all the time,” Bagby said. “It’s how Ralston Valley makes me play. … I love it. It seems to be an advantage for me.”
Said Farmers coach Dan Watkins of Bagby: “She did a phenomenal job. She threw herself into a lot of 50-50 tackles, and she was difference in the game.”
The Farmers had their moments but were missing the clinical finish or pass.
Colleen Martin made a strong run down the right side in the 28th minute and found Ali Gamberg with space in the penalty area, only to watch the senior blaze her shot well high.
Ralston Valley 0 1 – 1
Wheat Ridge 0 0 – 0
Goal – Coniglio (penalty kick) 48th minute.
Shots on goal – Ralston Valley 2-6 – 8; Wheat Ridge 1-0 – 1. Saves – Ralston Valley (Bagby 79 minutes; Winter 1) 1-0 – 1; Wheat Ridge (Cardenas) 2-5 – 7. Offsides – Ralston Valley 0-2 – 2; Wheat Ridge 4-1 – 5. Corner kicks – Ralston Valley 1-0 – 1; Wheat Ridge 1-0 – 1. Fouls – Ralston Valley 7-11 – 18; Wheat Ridge 4-5 – 9. Yellow cards – Coniglio, RV, 59th minute; Ranson, RV, 66th; Garcia, WR, 80th. Red card – Ranson, RV, 80th minute.
