Ventura College’s women’s soccer team defeated Moorpark 2-1 and have nearly sealed their 13th Western State Conference championship in 15 years.

Only one more win separates Ventura from the championship crown, and with last place Hancock college coming to Ventura on Tuesday, the championship is virtually assured.

Moorpark’s women’s team, the defending WSC champions were unable to convert on a number of opportunities to score in the second half.

An outstanding play by Ventura goalie Raelene Moreno managed to keep Moorpark out of the goal with five saves, including a one-on-one short-range shot.

Ventura coach Steve Hoffman, who has a 187-12-18 record as coach of the Pirates, said the girls should receive most of the praise.

“The girls deserve all the credit in games like this, they motivate themselves for big games,” said Hoffman. “They know what to do to win, and today they went out and did it.”

Ventura took the lead early with a goal in the 11th minute by Monique Orocio, with an assist by Victoria Burnell.

Moorpark forward Kelly Mena responded with a tying goal, but the brief tie was broken by Taylor Benton who gave Ventura the lead just before the end of the half.

Ventura seemed to have a speed advantage in the backfield, and were able to limit Moorpark to taking shots from the edges. Neither team managed to score in the second half, despite a number of close calls on both sides.

Both teams seemed to respect each other, at least from Hoffman’s angle.

“This year we were a little better, but I give credit to Moorpark and their coach, they’re a tough team each and every game,” said Hoffman.