Middleton, Fla. – The Villages High School girls soccer team struck early and never eased late Tuesday night, rolling to a 3-0 victory over Citrus at H.G. Morse Stadium in Middleton.

Ana Porras opened the scoring just nine minutes into the match, putting the Buffalo ahead at 1-0. Just four minutes later, Samaya Khaleel doubled the lead with her 10th goal of the season, giving The Villages (4-3 overall) firm control before the first hydration break.

The Buffalo maintained possession and tempo throughout the opening half, limiting the Hurricanes to very few chances. With nine minutes remaining before halftime, Violet Dougherty finished a setup from Maria Torres to extend the lead to 3-0 in favor of VHS.

Midfielder Isabella Martinez delivered one of her strongest performances of the year, helping drive the attack and generating several shots on goal while also contributing defensively.

"Our plan for the game was to press them off the bat and get some quick goals, and it happened early," VHS head coach Brian Rausch said. "(The) girls played well tonight and we have a tough one coming up on Friday against Mount Dora."

Looking ahead, Rausch said the Buffalo will need a complete effort ahead of Friday night's visit to Mount Dora (5-1-2). Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. 

"To win against Mount Dora we need to play strong and come out hard," Rausch said. "But we will also have to play until the end." 


Kyle Coppola can be reached for questions or comment via email at kyle.coppola@buffalostampeders.com.