Emily Hornig notched a hat trick and two assists as the Gladiators (3-1) took a big step forward with a 7-0 trouncing of Redwoods on Friday, Sept. 15.

Marin Michieli also had a big game with two goals and three assists.

"A really strong performance, where we saw the hard work in practice pay off," said first-year coach Dan Chubbock. "The combination play in the final third was very sharp, with Marin (Michieli), Emily and Natalia (Lumley) causing the opponent constant problems. Our decision-making was improved and the tempo was really good to see."

Chubbock also praised his defense for "being more organized" and our shape looked great in and out of possession."

The Glads will deal with player illnesses in two home games this week — Tuesday against Siskiyous and Friday against Foothill — but the absences will give others a chance to break into the starting lineup.

Also scoring against Marin were Lumley and Margarita Vinciguerra.