The soccer season has begun and the DVC women’s soccer team started its quest for a Big 8 title down in San Luis Obispo last Friday, leaving with a win and a tie.

DVC took on Cuesta College in the first game on Friday, Aug. 31. Despite outshooting Cuesta 16-2, DVC barely managed a draw, tying the game at 1-1 during the final 10 minutes of the game. Coach Mullins described it as a typical opening game: several mistakes and missed opportunities. “We were definitely the dominant team. It was just the last third of the field where we made some poor choices.”

The second game on Saturday, Sep. 1, provided a better outcome. DVC had little trouble with Allen-Hancock, defeating them 3-1. “We made some adjustments from the first game,” said Mullins.

The early showings cast a bright outlook for the 2012 season. But if there will be any sort of hindrance, it could be their inexperience. DVC returns just six players from last year on a 24-man roster. However, Mullins isn’t too concerned, stating that the team is very productive overall and has yet to develop its playing style.

Although dominated by youth, the group of returnees includes the reigning conference Defensive Player of the Year in Cherie Lapating and the co-leading goal scorer from last year in Wendy Magarin. Mullins also made note of Lindsey Parscal. A center back last year, Mullins is trying to convert her into a wing because of her excellent speed.

A few newcomers have made themselves known, namely Jenn Crider, Amanda Garcia, Alicia Palma and Emily Cremisio.

Crider and Garcia are freshmen splitting time in goal, both playing above their experience level. Palma has already logged two goals in the first two games.

Cremisio, a first year player, has been named a captain, speaking to the amount of respect her teammates have for her in such little time. She’s actually in her second year of college, but after transferring from a school in Florida she has her two full years of eligibility at DVC. “She’s just a warrior on the field. She gets in there and battles,” Mullins said of Cremisio.

Overall, Mullins is excited about what her team can accomplish this season. “We may not have  the superior talent, but we have a deeper roster compared to last year. One where everyone can play well. Once our injured players get healthy we can be pretty dangerous.”

DVC’s first home game is this Friday, Sep. 7 against Napa Valley at 3:30 p.m.