Kickers Earn Easy Victory After String Of Tie

Santa Monica 6
Long Beach Cabrillo 0

Amir Soofi
Mirror contributing writer

   A much-anticipated win over Long Beach Cabrillo finally showcased the style of soccer that Santa Monica (2-0-4) can achieve. After settling for three consecutive ties the prior week, Santa Monica entered the game against Cabrillo thirsty for a victory. The scoring started early in the first minute when senior Tony De la Rosa ran on to a ball at midfield and sent it over the Cabrillo defense where senior Martin Zarate headed it over two defenders and the goalkeeper for the first goal. Zarate would continue to attack, consistent with his position as the all-time scoring leader at Santa Monica, with goals in minutes 28 and 60 to record the hat trick. Senior sweeper Eric Clarke assisted on Zarate’s second goal, and junior stopper Corey Prost on his third.
   De la Rosa scored the second goal of the game in minute 22, assisted by junior Joardan Kurland. The game’s fourth goal was courtesy of another assist by Kurland in minute 54 to junior Tomas Oppenheim.
   Junior goalkeeper Alex Quick recorded his first shut out for the year with four saves in the game. Conversely, Cabrillo was responsible for the last score of the game, as they kicked into their own goal to increase the Viking lead to six.
   “We did what we needed to do against an inferior team,” said Vikings head coach Frank Gatell, relating his pleasure. “I’m glad the boys finally opened up the gates to the goal, and we were able to execute effectively, especially after being so frustrated after the heinous officiating against Roosevelt.” In their last game against Roosevelt, which resulted in a tie, the Vikings had two goals called back due to dangerous play, as well as dealing with the ejection of an assistant coach, a parent, and senior Trent Gould. The Vikings also lost sophomore Carlos Lopez to a knee injury involving the opposing goalkeeper.
   Santa Monica returns to action at the South Torrance Holiday Tournament, facing Bishop Montgomery in the first game on Thursday, December 20, in South Torrance. Kickoff will be at 7:30 p.m.