The Stockton Cargo Soccer Club ended its fourth USL W League season the right way — with a win, a strong home crowd, and a promising look at the club’s next generation.
Playing before 519 fans on an unseasonably chilly Saturday evening, the Cargo battled past Marin FC for a 3-2 season-ending victory, closing the year with a 3-4-3 record in a campaign defined by youth, development and plenty of reasons for optimism.
Stockton came into the finale with a youthful lineup, including four starters still of high school age. But the young Cargo side showed poise early, attacking with confidence and setting the tone from the opening whistle.
Ava Coverdale gave Stockton the spark it needed in the 14th minute, launching a brilliant strike from outside the penalty box for a highlight-worthy golazo and a 1-0 Cargo lead. The goal energized Stockton, which continued pressing forward and created several dangerous chances throughout the first half.
The pressure paid off again in the 42nd minute when Camila Palafox, part of the Cargo’s rising youth movement, scored the first goal of her Stockton Cargo career. Her finish sent the home side into halftime with a 2-0 lead and the crowd buzzing.
Marin FC cut into the deficit in the 55th minute, but Stockton answered quickly. Less than 10 minutes later, Maleah Evans delivered in the 64th minute, scoring her third goal of the season to push the Cargo advantage to 3-1.
Marin added another goal in the 72nd minute to make things interesting, but Stockton controlled possession down the stretch and limited Marin’s scoring chances the rest of the way. The Cargo closed out the match with composure, securing a hard-earned victory and ending the season on a high note.
The win capped a season that may be remembered less for the final record and more for the foundation it helped build. With young players gaining valuable minutes, first career goals being scored, and Stockton continuing to compete in front of loyal local fans, the Cargo appear to be building toward something exciting.
And while the USL W season has come to an end, the Cargo’s connection to the community is still going strong.
The club is inviting fans to join them for a World Cup watch party on Wednesday, July 1, at 5 p.m. at Michael’s New York Pizza, as supporters gather to cheer on Team USA in a win-or-go-home match against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Fans should also keep an eye out for the next free Cargo Kids Camp, which will continue to be held throughout the year as the club works to grow the game and inspire the next generation of Stockton soccer players.
For the Cargo, Saturday’s finale was more than just a win. It was a celebration of progress, a nod to the future, and one more reminder that soccer in Stockton continues to grow.