Ehly and Aguirre Score in Tie

The MiraCosta men's soccer team took the field on Friday to begin their conference schedule against the Olympians from Mesa College.  In the first half both teams were scoreless despite quality chances. Although Mesa scored first (57th minute), the aggresive attack of Bobby Ehly was rewarded with a goal in the just shortly after (58th minute) to tie the game at 1-1. Forward counterpart Jose Aguirre assisted Ehly on the goal.

The game remained even until when Aguirre scored in the 89th minute, appearing to be the hero of the match.  The Spartans did everything they could to hold off Mesa's final attack but in extra time the Olympians earned a corner kick that eventually became a goal in the final moments. The late goal stole the win away from MiraCosta but also provided the Spartans some valuable experience for the remainder of the conference schedule.

Sophomore goalkeeper Adrian Valencia finished the match with five saves while playing the entire 90 minutes.  Other standouts include Ricardo Acosta and Vance Bartelt on the back line, Mahamad Shabaan who played both in an attacking role and a defensive role, and Miguel "Mikey" Aceves in the middle. 

Ehly not only contributed the Spartans' first goal but also was active in winning many balls out of the air and keeping pressure on the Olympian defense.

In the end, MiraCosta earned a draw against Mesa College and open conference play 0-0-1.  The Spartans are next in action on Tuesday, September 28 at Palomar College.