Viking Kickers Defeat Peninsula 2-1

Amir Soofi
Mirror contributing writer

   The Vikings (6-3-5, 2-1) defeated the hard playing Peninsula Panthers 2-1 on the road Tuesday. The Santa Monica High Mens Varsity soccer team came off a loss to Torrance and a win against South Torrance last week to open up Bay League play. Going into Tuesday’s match, the Vikings expected that their opponents would play a very fast and physical game, but nevertheless felt up to the challenge. Prospects seemed gloomy when the Viking Kickers went down a goal in minute 17 off of a Peninsula free kick to in front of the Viking goal, where a Panther forward headed it in past junior goalkeeper Alex Quick.
   Santa Monica answered back in minute 25 when senior forward Martin Zarate took the ball towards the left side of the Peninsula goal, got by three defenders, and then passed the ball to senior midfielder Tyler Shahriary, who popped it into the back of the Panther net for the tie.
   In the second half, the Vikings remained poised and waited for their chance to strike. Senior midfielder Tony De La Rosa dribbled the ball down the right side of the field and crossed it in towards the Peninsula goal, where the defender who tried to clear it instead mishit it. This sealed the game in favor of Santa Monica. Coach Frank Gatell was very pleased with his team’s victory, “I always tell my players that they have to play with their heart. In today’s game they played with pride and showed their true potential.
   “Unfortunately we can’t savor the win too long,” Gatell added, “because we have to play West Torrance [on Wednesday].” The Viking’s defense, lead by sweeper Eric Clarke, Tyler Gonzalez, Corey Prost, and Jordan Kurland, came through with valiant play and made sure to hold off any Panther attacks. Also captain Trent Gould, who led by example, put an excellent effort forward. If the Vikings have found their pace and continue to play simple soccer, they will be able to contend for the Bay league title.