Avila, Lara score goals in 6-2 defeat Friday evening

ROCHELLE — The Rochelle Lady Hub varsity soccer team hosted Stillman Valley for a nonconference match Friday evening, falling 6-2 and suffering its first loss of the season. Senior Mavi Avila and sophomore Makayla Lara each scored goals for the Lady Hubs (2-1, 0-0 Interstate 8), while junior Danica Ward recorded 10 saves to lead the Rochelle defense.

The Lady Hubs took the early lead in the match, with Avila scoring an unassisted goal on a right-footed shot from the edge of the Stillman Valley penalty area during the third minute. The Cardinals regained control of the match soon after, however, scoring goals in the seventh and 17th minutes to take a 2-1 advantage. Additional goals during the 21st, 24th and 36th minutes allowed Stillman Valley to surge ahead and take a 5-1 lead over the Lady Hubs at halftime.

Lara’s left-footed blast from distance soared over the Cardinal goalkeeper during the 56th minute for Rochelle’s second and final goal of the match. Stillman Valley sealed the win with its last goal of the contest during the 61st minute. The Cardinals outshot the Lady Hubs 19-11 and 16-6 in shots on goal. Rochelle will face Streator on the road Tuesday at 4:30 p.m.