CALDWELL, Idaho – A stunning early strike from Oregon Tech could have rattled The College of Idaho. Instead, it lit a fire.
The fourth-ranked Yotes, just a day removed from a gut-wrenching loss that ended a 32-match Cascade Conference regular-season unbeaten streak, roared back Saturday with a 5-1 demolition of Oregon Tech at Simplot Stadium. The victory wasn't just emphatic; it was a statement.
Sydney Soskis stunned the home crowd with a goal in the fourth minute, giving the Owls a fleeting lead. From there, it was all Yotes. Gianna Yslava leveled the score in the 27th minute, and the floodgates opened after halftime. Abbi Roubidoux put C of I ahead in the 52nd, Eden Makaafi struck twice in the second half, and Kaeden Hansen added another as the Yotes unleashed a relentless 26-shot barrage.
Roubidoux not only played the role of goal scorer, but also playmaker, The CCC points leader added two more assists on the night. Natajsa Davis and Allison Moultray also contributed assists.
The win restores control of the CCC title race after Southern Oregon's loss to Eastern Oregon earlier in the evening. The Yotes (11-2, 8-1 CCC) now sit three points clear of Eastern Oregon and five ahead of Southern Oregon, which still holds a game in hand. With tonight's results, destiny is back in Caldwell's hands.
The Yotes will close their home slate on Oct. 25, hosting University of Providence (Mont.) at Simplot Stadium. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m., with Senior Day celebrations beginning at 3 p.m. as the program honors its graduating class.
