ROCKLIN, CA

On a hot and sunny day in Central California, the Oaks took on the Warriors in what turned out to be a tense affair in a non-conference game between two GSAC rivals. With the score 2-2 at the final whistle, Menlo remained undefeated so far in 2023.

Nervy Ninety Minutes for Both Sides

The final score is a bit misleading, as there were a total of just 13 shots in the game. Jessup totaled 7, of which 3 were on target, while Menlo contributed 6, with 2 on target. Much of the match was a chippy tug-of-war between two sides that were determined not to give each other an inch, resulting in flashpoints across the field, especially in sectors in and around the 18-yard box.

Jessup committed a total of 16 fouls, with 5 Warriors receiving yellow cards. Menlo, meanwhile, committed 13 fouls, with the referee brandishing the yellow to 6 Oaks. 

That type of game ultimately benefited Menlo, with the Oaks earning a penalty kick with just over 10 minutes to play. With his team trailing 2-1, senior midfielder Axel Valle stepped up to take the spot kick, and delivered a cool-headed finish into the net to level matters at 2-2.

Synergy for the Opening Goal

Menlo scored first in the game, with newcomer Eder Carrasco getting his name on the scoresheet for the second time this season. 

About 15 minutes into the match, forward Ryan Branigan opportunistically knocked the ball away from a Jessup defender who was attempting to pass it back to the Warrior goalkeeper. Branigan chased down the ball, and used the underside of his foot to roll a smooth pass behind him, through the defender's legs, and into the path of Johan Mendoza Aguilar.

With the defense in disarray, Mendoza Aguilar passed the ball to Axel Valle, who was stationed at the top of the penalty area. Valle sent a short pass to an unmarked Carrasco a few yards away, who cannoned a shot into the goal from about 20 yards out.

In a sport that requires a well-balanced mix of strategy and improvisation, the Oaks demonstrated both in a sequence that is likely a blueprint for how head coach Keith Lambert wants his team to play in the attacking third of the field. Despite not being scored in a victory, it was a goal that offered a glimpse into the firepower present in this Menlo offense.

Up Next

Menlo will hit the road again next Tuesday, September 19th, for a game against California State University Maritime Academy. Kickoff in Vallejo, California is scheduled for 5:30 PM.