ATHERTON, CA

On a pleasant afternoon at Wunderlich Field, Menlo and the Oregon Institute of Technology played to a scoreless tie. The Oaks' overall record is now 1-0-2.

An Exceedingly Solid Foundation

Today, for the third consecutive game, Menlo Men's Soccer prevented its opponent from registering a shot on target. For a team at any level to allow not one shot on frame across 270 competitive minutes, the level of understanding across the back line and beyond needs to be remarkable. Indeed, for this level of synergy to be reached so early in the season suggests a chemistry that could allow this team to achieve great things in 2023.

For the second time in 3 days, David Stuber and Ian Brusewitz anchored the back line from the opening whistle. Ahead of them, Dennis Vanin provided cover from the midfield for all 90 minutes, with Roy Rosenberg acting as left-back throughout the match. In addition, such is the seamless nature of this team's defensive solidity that the additions through substitution of defensive-minded players Donald Holliday and Luis Politron had no impact on Menlo's effectiveness.

Goalkeeper Jo Krumsvik, though not called upon for any traditional saves, still contributed to the game by means of clearances and distributions. The junior is unlikely, however, to feel too displeased with what is an enviable state of affairs for anyone who spends time between the posts.

Offensive Sparks, But No Fire

On the other end of the field, Menlo managed to tally a very respectable 16 shots, 8 of which were on target. The biggest contribution to those totals came from sophomore midfielder Johan Mendoza Aguilar, who totaled 5 shots, 3 of which were on frame, across 65 minutes off the bench. The Patterson, California native is increasingly looking like one of the biggest offensive threats available to head coach Keith Lambert. With a goal and assist to his name already this season, Mendoza Aguilar appears poised for an excellent debut season.

A trio of Oaks took 2 shots each in the game: Axel Valle, Antonio Jimenez, and Levin Ledergerber. All of them showed glimpses of the creativity and drive that are sure to make them integral parts of the coaching staff's plans this season. Valle, in particular, with his skills in both open play and set-piece situations, was an important source of inspiration for the Oaks' attack.

Up Next

Menlo has one game on its schedule next week, a home matchup with Corban University on Friday, September 1st. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:00 PM at Wunderlich Field.