CYPRESS, CA- The Cypress Chargers (20-1-2) traveled to Mt. San Antonio College to take on the Fresno Rams (15-3-7) for the CCCAA State Semi-Finals. Cypress took down Fresno, 2-1, to advance to the State Finals for the first time since 2004. 

Brianna Cortez was stellar for the Chargers again as she led the team with three shots against a tough Fresno defense. After a scoreless 20 minutes, Cortez lined up for a free kick from 30 yards out. She found the top corner of the net as the ball soared just over the finger tips of the keepers hands (video here). The goal put the Chargers up 1-0, and marked Cortez's fourth straight playoff game with a goal. Cypress added to their lead early in the second half with a goal by Anahi Diaz (48'). Fresno City would not go away lightly as Jacky Vasquez found the back of the net (60') to cut the Charger lead in half. Cypress would tighten up defensively, and with five great saves by goalkeeper Siriana Gudino, would hold on for a 2-1 victory. 

Cypress will face the Hartnell Panthers (20-2-2) in the CCCAA State Championship Sunday, December 5th. The State Championship will continue at Mt. San Antonio College and kickoff will be at 10am. 

Cypress and Hartnell will matchup for the second time this season after the Chargers came out on top in the first match, 2-1. The Panthers had a successful 2021 season as they went undefeated in their next 22 games after their game with Cypress on September 2nd. Brianna Cortez will look to continue her offensive dominance (24 goals) as the Chargers are prepared for a heavy weight battle in the State Championship.  

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