SOCCER (M)

8/28/09 - Royals Walk Away With Tie in Season Opener

Aliso Viejo, CA- Though the Royals had their chances, a 0-0 tie in their season opener against Soka essentially came down to one play in the 108th minute.  Senior Goalkeeper Matt Fike denied a potential game winning penalty kick to preserve the tie.

The Royals (0-0-1) started the game forcing the Lions (0-0-1) back on their heals but just could not find the back of the net.  Freshman Edgar Bran had the first four shots (with two on goal) for the Royals including one just 1:33 into the match.

Sophomore Billy Monnier and Freshman Jake Shook both forced the Lions’ Goalkeeper Tim Sasser to make a save within the waning moments of the first half with Monnier’s shot coming from point blank range.

The second half was much the same as the first half with the Royals outshooting the Lions 11-5 combined in the first two periods.  However, with about 10 minutes left in the second half, the Lions started to make a push.  Though the Royals were able to stave off the Lions, both teams received an unexpected 20 minute breather with about three and a half  minutes to play as all the lights for field went completely out.

When the action resumed, both teams built up some chances but could not get even get a shot off.

In the first overtime, each team managed a shot but Freshman Matthew Howard went high with his attempt and Fike made a big save to deny Soka.

After a handful of shots were off the mark for both teams to start the second overtime, a foul in the box by the Royals set up the do-or-die penalty kick situation for Fike.  On the kick, Soka’s Ichiro Kobayashi tried to beat Fike to his left.  However, a quick dive to the ground by Fike smothered the shot.

As they settle for a tie, the Royals will have a week to lick their wounds from the physical match and get ready for Cal State San Marcos at The Master’s Invitational.   Kick off next Friday will be at 1:00 pm.  A match with Southwestern awaits the Royals the following day at 1:00 pm as well.

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