Second-Quarter Surge Secures 10-6 Win for Mustangs Over Fierce Rivals Brahmas

In a thrilling local showdown filled with intensity and momentum swings, the Walnut Mustangs delivered a strong all-around performance, defeating the Diamond Bar Brahmas 10-6 in Palomares League play.

First Quarter

The opening quarter set the tone for a fast-paced, physical battle. Walnut’s Suemi Cabral ignited the offense with back-to-back goals, immediately putting pressure on the Brahmas. The Mustangs continued their aggressive attack as Alyssa Diaz buried two more goals, while Victoria Mejia added another to cap a powerful opening surge. Walnut’s ability to capitalize on key possessions gave them an early 5-0 advantage.

Second Quarter

Diamond Bar began to find its rhythm in the second quarter. Shanika Zhao broke through midway into the period, putting the Brahmas on the scoreboard. Emma Wu followed with two quick goals in under two minutes, cutting the deficit to 6-3 and briefly shifting momentum.

However, the Mustangs responded in emphatic fashion. Mejia caught fire, recording a hat trick with three consecutive goals to halt the Brahmas’ comeback and restore Walnut’s control. The surge sent the Mustangs into halftime with a commanding 9-3 lead.

Third Quarter

Coming out of the break, the Brahmas looked rejuvenated. Diamond Bar tightened its defensive rotations and generated cleaner looks on the perimeter. Charity Han and Vianey Jauregui each found the net, sparking another push for the Brahmas.

Walnut answered once again, as Mejia struck late in the quarter to extend the Mustangs’ lead to 10-5, keeping momentum firmly in Walnut’s favor.

Fourth Quarter

The Brahmas showed resilience in the final quarter, with Jauregui scoring early to continue the offensive pressure. Despite Diamond Bar’s push, Walnut’s defense stood tall. Goalkeeper Ava Waggoner made several clutch saves down the stretch, sealing the victory as the Mustangs closed out a hard-fought 10-6 win.