Columbia Basin scored 3 unanswered goals on their way to a 3-1 in their East opener against Blue Mountain. Three different Hawks scored in the winning effort to keep CBC undefeated.
In the 14th minute, CBC failed to clear a deep pass from Blue that saw their forward with a 1-on-1 chance against keeper
Jose Corona. They would score just past a diving effort from Corona to go ahead 1-0 early. CBC remained steady and in control of the ball despite the early deficit. Sophomore
Ivan Cortez netted the equalizer in the 36th minute from
Diego Lopez.
The Hawks would have a few more opportunities but ultimately enter the half tied 1-1. Basin has been strong just outside of halftime and today was no different. In the 48th minute,
Raymundo Mendez got behind the defense after shaking the center back before blasting a strike past the BMCC keeper for the eventual game-winner and a 2-1 lead.
Both teams played very physical all game but again Basin got into a little trouble in the 62nd minute when Blue was awarded a penalty kick. However, Corona was able to make the save to preserve the 2-1 lead. Seven minutes later,
Zinedine Moreno was able to strike a corner kick that found the back of the net to push the Hawks' lead to 3-1 which would be more than enough.
Blue Mountain failed to put together any strong chances in the final minutes as Basin cruised to the 3-1 final. The win keeps their undefeated streak going after receiving the #1 ranking in the NWAC Coaches Poll. They will return to the home pitch on Wednesday to take on Treasure Valley starting at 4:15pm.