Long Beach State University Athletics
Gonzales, Rangel Reunite to Lead Beach Soccer to Strong Start
9/12/2014 12:00:00 AM | Women's Soccer
By Jared Thieme
LBSU Media Relations
LONG BEACH - The 23rd-ranked Long Beach State Women's Soccer team has made their presence known early in the 2014 fall season. The Beach improved their record to 3-1-2 with a 2-0 win over Bakersfield last Sunday. Ashley Gonzales recorded two goals on the night, making it her second multiple goal game of the year. As an emerging freshman, Gonzales leads the team in goals scored this season.
Gonzales attended Chino Hills High School, the same alma mater as the 2013 Big West Freshman of the Year, Mimi Rangel. Gonzales and Rangel originally met through club soccer in their hometown and once their high school careers collided, a natural bond was formed. Throughout the three years playing together on the high school varsity soccer team, a common understanding between the two offensive players was created.
"The minute we started playing with each other, I was picking up on how she was playing, how she likes the ball and her movements with the ball," Rangel said. "Over the three years we were able to become more comfortable with each other."
An unspoken chemistry on the field between the forward and midfielder has created huge advantages for the LBSU offense. The duo has already combined for five goals, five assists and 51 shot attempts. Their chemistry was clearly evident in a 3-2 win against Georgia, where Rangel set up both of Gonzales' goals, including the game-winner in the 84th minute.
"The second goal she scored against Georgia, the ball came to me and I flicked it forward, she was already making the run," said Rangel.
Long Beach State Head Coach Mauricio Ingrassia has a possession-based style of play that attracted both Rangel and Gonzales to the soccer program. Gonzales reflected on her official visit to the school during her recruiting process.
"When I came to visit, I watched a couple of games and watched their style of play," Gonzales said. "The environment was amazing and Mimi kept saying how she loved playing here. The official visit is what set my decision."
The Beach will continue to fight their way to the top of the Big West Conference, and has their sights set on the program's fifth NCAA Tournament berth. As a family-oriented team with many unique players, the season ahead looks very promising.
*Long Beach State continues its tough non-conference schedule this weekend with its first true road test at BYU on Saturday, Sept. 13. Kick-off is set for 6 p.m. (PT) and the game will be televised live on BYUtv.
