Paladin

Issue date: 9/4/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Jorge Ramos [Click to enlarge]

In a home game against Rio Hondo, the Vikings played to a 1-1 draw Wednesday, Sept. 10.

Midfielder Michael Pentland scored the Vikes lone goal in the eight minute of the first half.

Preparing for the regular season, the LBCC Viking men's soccer team has demonstrated good teamwork and delivered impressive results, maintaining a 3-0-2 record, while scoring 12 goals and having surrendered only two goal s by opponents.

The Vikings latest victory was a 2-1 win against Orange Coast on Friday, Sept. 5, with second-half scoring by freshman Warwick Newbold and sophomore Paco Prado.

The team defended well throughout the entire game and were able to take the lead after valuable saves by starting goalie Chris DeWalt, who gave up a goal toward the end of the game, ending a three-game clean sheet where he surrendered no goals.

After posting a winning record in pre-season, the players have developed a confident mentality and continue to practice with intensity.

Midfielder, Murilo Rodrigues said, "Every player understands the function of a 4-4-2 formation. There are quality starters and equally good subs to face challenging games. The players already know what's expected of them."

Although last Friday's game was challenging, the Viking defense remains up to par, receiving only one goal in four games.

Defender Alex Martinez recognizes that the key to the team's solid defense is "the confidence and communication players have with each other."

Equally impressive is the 11 goals the team has scored, with big contributions by freshman Manuel Batista, who made three goals against Palomar and another against L.A. Mission.

Batista said, "I feel comfortable with my teammates and play better under pressure, I maintain focus and play for the team."

Midfielder Osvaldo Sepulveda said that the offense keeps opponents busy, relieving pressure from the defenders.

He also praises the entire team for its work and said that, Newbold, one of the four off-season additions expected to make an impact, "is a strong player. He wins 50/50 balls."

According to the players, Coach Cameron Beaulac is cautious to make sure the team is in optimal condition to start the season.

The Vikings are scheduled to play Desert Friday, Sept. 12 at 4 p.m. at the LAC soccer field.

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