RCTC Downs Anoka-Ramsey to Capture Region XIII Title
The Rochester Community and Technical College women's soccer team delivered a commanding performance on Saturday, October 25, defeating Anoka-Ramsey Community College 11-1 to claim the Region XIII Championship on their home turf.
From the opening whistle, RCTC asserted its dominance. Just 43 seconds into the match, Becca Cook opened the scoring off a feed from Emma Scheppmann, setting the tone for what would become a relentless offensive display. Although Anoka-Ramsey briefly equalized in the 9th minute with a goal from Gigi Nyembwe, RCTC responded with a flurry of goals that left no doubt about the outcome.
Cook was unstoppable, netting five goals and adding an assist in a performance that showcased her scoring prowess. She was supported by a dynamic midfield and forward line, including Milla Van Der Velde, who tallied two goals and two assists, and Scheppmann, who added a goal and two assists of her own. Lilly Farrand contributed a goal and two assists, while Milayna Zwiener and the team added late goals to cap the scoring.
By halftime, RCTC had built an 8-1 lead, with goals coming in rapid succession from Cook, Van Der Velde, and Farrand. The second half saw continued pressure, with three more goals sealing the emphatic victory.
The Yellowjackets outshot Anoka-Ramsey 56-1, including 41 shots on goal. Andraya Sailor, the Anoka-Ramsey goalkeeper, made an impressive 30 saves despite the lopsided scoreline. RCTC's goalkeeper Miley Dostal faced just one shot, which resulted in the lone goal for the visitors.
RCTC's midfield controlled possession throughout, and their defense allowed no shots in the second half. The team also earned six corner kicks to Anoka-Ramsey's zero and committed just five fouls in a disciplined display.
With the win, RCTC not only secures the Region XIII title but also sends a strong message heading into the district tournament. By virtue of making the Region final both teams qualify for the Midwest Disctrict Champions next week. RCTC will serve as District TOurnament host on Friday, October 31st and Saturday, November 1st. RCTC will play in the first semi-final at 5:00pm on Friday against the winner of Region 4, while Anoka-Ramsey will play in the ssecond semi-final against the winner of region 12 at 7:30pm. The two semi-final winners will play at 1:00pm on Saturda for a berth in the NJCAA National Tournament.
