ATHERTON, CA – Menlo Men's Soccer hosted previous GSAC foe's, the Lions of Vanguard University, in their first face off in the new home of the PacWest Conference. It was just as competitive as Menlo remembered and despite numerous opportunities, the score remained at 0. Senior Day is coming up on Saturday, November 2nd for the Oaks!
Defensive Duel Ends in Standoff
In a thrilling 90-minute showdown, Menlo and Vanguard finished in a 0-0 stalemate, showcasing an intense back-and-forth as both teams fought to break the deadlock. Menlo's shot takers, led by Johan Mendoza Aguilar with multiple close calls, relentlessly challenged Vanguard's defense but could not find the back of the net. Mendoza Aguilar has been an attacking force this entire season with 24 shots taken in 15 matches played. Center back David Stuber also showed his attacking efforts and came close with a shot on frame, only to be denied by Vanguard's goalkeeper once more.
Menlo's goalkeeper, Martin Fiala, stood tall with two crucial saves, thwarting Vanguard's best attempts and keeping Menlo in the game. Fiala is in the PacWest leaderboard after today's match holding 2nd in the conference in goals against average and shutouts, with 5 across 14 matches. Martin continues to show his leadership on the pitch with his impressive collection and distribution from his box.
By the Numbers: A Statistical Battle
Menlo held the upper hand in offensive efforts, logging 19 shots with 5 on target, while Vanguard managed 8 shots with 2 on goal. Corner kicks were another area of Menlo dominance, claiming 8 compared to Vanguard's 2. Despite the 8 set pieces, Menlo was shut out by the Lions. In a physical match, fouls were high, with Vanguard committing 15 and Menlo close behind with 9. The intensity also saw several bookings, as Vanguard received three yellow cards, and Menlo's Andres Maldonado picked up one late in the second half. Nonetheless, the competitive spirit was on full display in an effort to overpower the once GSAC rivalry.
Up Next….
Menlo Men's Soccer will honor their class of 10 graduating seniors on Saturday, November 2nd before their 11am game against Azusa Pacific at Wunderlich Field.
