AC 2 - UC Santa Cruz 1 (Senior Day)

UC Santa Cruz came into the game ranked #6 in the nation. They are a quality side with good talent everywhere on the field. Our guys were looking forward to the challenge.

Both teams came out sharp early. Just a minute and a half into the game, UC Santa Cruz took the lead off a negative ball through the box. AC, however, came back strong and got an equalizer only 30 seconds later. The ball was played down the line to Jason "Jamaica" Campbell (Kingston, Jamaica) who crossed the ball towards the middle of the field. Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) fired a shot that the UC Santa Cruz keeper couldn't handle and Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) was there to slam home the rebound. After the goal both teams were going back and forth at each other with each looking very dangerous and creating good opportunities. With 18 minutes to play in the first half, AC would strike again. Luis Castillo (Kingwood, TX) took the ball through the midfield and slotted a through ball to Chris Melton (Sherman, TX) who calmly beat the keeper for his second goal of the game. Both team would create chances near the end of the half, but neither were able to finish them. The score would remain 2-1 going into halftime.

During halftime we talked about staying organized defensively all over the field. We knew that UC Santa Cruz would create some chances, we just had to be up to the challenge. We also talked about attacking them offensively to keep them on their heels.

The second half started the same as the first. Both teams went back and forth creating good opportunities to score. Our whole team did an excellent job of working up and down the field. The guys pressed forward when we were on the attack and did their jobs defensively when UC Santa Cruz had the ball. The second half would continue to be a back and forth struggle. With about 10 minutes to play UC Santa Cruz would press hard to get the equalizing goal. However, AC's defense would deny every chance that they created to give us the 2-1 victory on senior day.

This was an incredible game to be a part of. Our guys played fantastic for 90 minutes. It was a great way to send off our seniors on their last game on the home field. Thanks to all the fans who came out to support the game. You created an awesome atmosphere for the guys to play in. Now the team looks to continue our hot streak as we get back into conference play this weekend. GO ROOS!


-Matt Dickinson