Crossroads Soccer Off to Strong Start

Amir Soofi
Mirror contributing writer

   Crossroads mens’ soccer is undefeated in league play and set for a showdown versus Brentwood this Friday. The men have set a goal to remain undefeated in the Delphic League and advance to earn their first ever CIF title. The Roadrunner kickers played three games this week and remained unbeaten with two victories and one tie, with an impressive 15 goals for and three goals against statistic.
   Their first league game was away at Campbell Hall on January 8 and ended in a 3-3 tie. Spencer Pratt scored all three Crossroads’ goals. Campbell Hall, a tough opponent, defeated top-team Brentwood 2-1 later in the week.
   A non-league home 4-0 victory versus Oakwood on January 9 gave Crossroads the momentum to plow through the rest of the week. Zach Roth scored his first goal on a penalty kick to begin the scoring. Pratt, Chris Rasmus, and Jon Mandabach added one goal each. Goalkeeper Justin Commins made various key saves to keep Oakwood from scoring and recorded his third shutout of the season.
   The men earned their first league victory versus Pacific Hills on January 11, trouncing it, 8-0. Roth converted his sixth goal of the season on a free kick to break the short-lived 0-0 tied. Pratt scored three goals for the third time this year. Jeremy Levine scored two goals. Alex Smith and Sean Mobasser each scored one to complete the scoring. Goalkeeper Commins had his fourth shutout of the season.
   The men are undefeated at home with a 6-0-1 record, with 24 goals for and 9 goals against. Leading scorers are Pratt, 16 goals, Roth, 6 goals, Jacob Feingold, 4 goals, Manny Briceno, 3 goals, Will Doerken, 3 goals, Mandabach, 3 goals, and Mobasser, with 3 goals.
   Crossroads and Brentwood are cross-town rivals, battling for the Delphic League title each season. Both programs have exceptionally strong teams this year. They will play at Crossroads’ Extravaganza Night on Friday, January 18. Celebrating soccer in the Santa Monica community, Friday evening’s festivities will include awards, food, the school choir, and four soccer events. The first game kicks off at 3:30 p.m.