Corona Del Mar, a large public school and a Division IV team, hosted the Lightning on Friday afternoon. We tied the game 0-0. Overall, we had a stellar performance: we played with heart, and every team member played well. The defenders played tight, the midfielders played aggressive, and the forwards created plenty of scoring opportunities. Co-captain Michael Bear played intelligently despite an early injury to his wrist. Lion Wintemute did a great job as fullback, supporting Michael and taking goal kicks. Both keepers-- Jake Blitzer and Craig Jackson-- were tested numerous times but managed to keep the opponent from scoring. Craig pulled a great shot from within the six yard box. Kam Fujii (a Sophomore and a JV recruit from last season) had a great game in the center. He made many simple, crisp passes to his teammates and played great defense whenever we lost ball possession. Many times he skillfully delayed and controlled the ball so our team could collect itself.

Co-captain Nick Singarella controlled the tempo of the game in the middle. He made several long passes to the forwards, oftentimes lofting it over CDM's defenders. He was greatly supported by Blake Myers, Mark Milner and Max Ellison. He was also able to take three wonderful shots at the keeper. We experimented with sophomore Colton Gyulay in the final third to support Taylor Ross, and it proved to be a good move. Taylor succeeded in staying put between the two central defenders and making occasional runs back to the center for immediate support. Colton, on the other hand, was able to move freely. He made several great runs on the flanks, executed sideways passes to the supporting midfielders, and penetrated the defense by dribbling, passing, or shooting.

Most notably, CDM pushed their entire team in the last few minutes, looking for a last-minute chance. Sage Hill was good at counter-attacks, pressing CDM to stay back. In the final minute Colton received a great ball from Blake Myers off a counter-attack while CDM was pressing so hard. Colton decided to chip the ball over the keeper's hands from about a forty yards out. The ball, unfortunately, ended in the keeper's hands. Colton was named player of the game by his teammates. We'll face Bolsa Grande Monday at 3:00 in Garden Grove. Please join us if you can.