ORANGE - Canyon scored two late goals to break a tie and defeat Foothill, 3-1, in nonleague girls soccer action Tuesday at Fred Kelly Stadium.

It was the final game for both teams before league play starts Thursday, and the teams treated it differently.

Canyon (9-4-1) had opened the season with eight consecutive victories before sputtering over the holiday break. So the Comanches were looking to regain their stride before the Century League opener at Brea Olinda.

Foothill (5-7-2), meanwhile, was playing without its top player, Julie McKee, and Coach Steve Patterson cleared his bench. The Knights visit Huntington Beach to begin Sea View League play.

“We let a lot of players play,” he said. “We wanted them to get some experience before league in case something happens. We needed them to play today. Some teams try to win every preseason game. For us, we take the preseason to get ready for league.

“We have 10 games (in league) and that’s all that matters.”

Canyon led 1-0 at halftime on freshman’s Taylor Alderete’s goal. She beat her defender on the right side, then the keeper far post. After a slow first half, the Knights picked up in the second half.

Foothill drew even in the 69th minute on Mary Spiegelberg’s goal. Her first attempt was stopped by the goalie, but Spiegelberg was there for the rebound and scored.

“The second half Foothill adjusted and was getting their attacks,” Canyon coach Walter Camargo said. “It was back and forth.

The Comanches regained the lead on Sarena Granados’ goal three minutes later. Alana Mitchem followed moments after for the 3-1 lead. Alderete assisted both goals.

“She’s a stud,” Camargo said of Alderete. “Every time she gets the ball I feel like we can score.

“It was important to get momentum before league. Foothill is a class school. It’s a good win.”

Contact the writer: ctobolski@ocregister.com