For the Gilroy High boys’ soccer team, missing a few key
starters wasn’t all that bad this time.
For the Gilroy High boys’ soccer team, missing a few key starters wasn’t all that bad this time.
Still missing Ben Alcantar, Artemio Arteaga and Everardo Diaz de Leon – all three wrapping up their season with club teams – and also without injured defender Ishi Nava, the Mustangs survived and held Alisal to a scoreless draw in Salinas Tuesday.
The team’s effort was a “180 degree difference” from last week’s 2-0 scrimmage loss to Oak Grove, coach Brian Hall said.
“The teamwork was fantastic,” he added. “The guys were good throughout. Unlike last game, everyone came to play and contribute.”
The Mustangs held the advantage in ball possession, Hall said, but several opportunities in the penalty areas came up short.
Both teams hit the posts a couple of times and the Mustangs were saved twice in the second half by standout defensive plays.
First, freshman goalie Randy Moya made a big-time save and then standout midfielder Alfonso Motagalvan, who Hall said dominated the penalty box area all night, cleared a ball just as it was nearing the goal line.
Hall also complimented the play of Humberto Pineda, who he said set up many of Gilroy’s scoring chances and often “looked like a man amongst boys.”
After a holiday break, the Mustangs (0-0-1) will travel to Cupertino Tuesday to compete in the first round of the Christmas Cup against Monte Vista.
