MiraCosta Wins Third Straight with Shutout Over City

Coming into the critical Friday conference match against San Diego City, the Spartan men's soccer team knew they had their hands full. The City College attack is one of the top in the state, with a forward that is second in the conference in goals scored. Today, however,  the story was about MiraCosta's defense. The Spartans prepared and executed the game plan, holding the Knights scoreless in 90 minutes. The back line of Omar Garcia-Velez (goal keeper), Dominik Wiks, Alejandro Colina, Thierry McElroy, Lincoln Newcomer, and Kellen Love started the game with incredible focus and intensity on the job at hand.

Garcia-Velez made his presence felt with timely saves and effective communication.  Wiks and his defensive collective kept the Knights out of dangerous areas and made their case for one of the deepest defensive lines in the state.  When Colina left the game after an injury, the Spartans quickly reorganized and continued the stellar defending.  McElroy's impressive speed and strength allowed him to play multiple positions as the coaching staff needed.

While the defense was the main story, the rest of the team played championship level soccer as well.  The midfielders controlled the middle of the field with effort and team work. Daniel Barbosa, Jiovanny Ramirez, Joaquin Valadez and Maika Beristain played their part in the defending and attacking.

The attacking players continued to shine.  Cesar Cruz, Silas Tackaberry and Jeremiah Yolemi were a force on the field.  Each, in their own way, created chances and put pressure on the San Diego City defenders. The first goal was scored by Wiks on a penalty kick, after Yolemi was fouled in the box.  The second goal was scored by Cruz, after Wiks shot a ball off the cross bar. The Spartans created multiple quality chances throughout the 90 minutes.

With the win, MiraCosta improves to 6-2-6 overall and 5-1-1 in conference.  The Spartans are in a three way tie for first place in the Pacific Coast Athletic Conference as they prepare to travel to San Diego Miramar College on Tuesday.