| Salinas Sports Complex – The Chieftains opened league play Tuesday with the understanding that a shot at the league title goes through Live Oak. The Chieftains shut down Garrett Frechette and the Acorns throughout the first half while maintaining a confident offensive posture. The plan to man-mark Frechette and midfielder Anthony Avalos frustrated the Live Oak attack while Palma keeper Luke Paulo kept the Chieftains in the match with five easy saves. Having experienced the patience of Live Oak over the years, halftime discussions focused on maintaining the defensive scheme while probing the sturdy Acorn defense for a chance at goal. Palma held on until the 53rd minute when miscommunications about the placement of the wall allowed Frechette to convert on a twenty-five yard free kick. Live Oak was awarded a penalty kick a few minutes later, but Luke Paulo frustrated Avalos left post shot with anticipation and a great save. The Chiefs bore down and created some interesting chances during the next fifteen minutes, but another miscommunication in the defense allowed Frechette to do what Live Oak does so well – capitalize on mistakes. Frechette’s second goal in the 77th minute (following a clearly offside pass to Avalos where the Chieftain defense let down – PSM only provided one official) finished the scoring for the match making it look worse than it was. The lads are already looking forward to the rematch. For the match, Live Oak led with 16 chances, including 9 shots on goal, to Palma’s 9 chances and 4 SOG. Luke Paulo recorded 9 saves for Palma. Luke Paulo earned “Player of the Match” honors for his decisive work in goal and PK save against Avalos. Freshman Dylan Lee had a great night against Frechette keeping him in check for seventy-nine plus minutes. Palma has a long layoff and is next in action at Seaside on Friday, January 5, 2006. Game time 6:30. JV: LO 2, Palma 2 |