Second-Half Woes Hand Men's Soccer 1-2 Defeat against Compton

The Long Beach City College men's soccer team hit its home pitch against ECC Compton on Friday evening in what shaped into a physical battle that featured six yellow cards and two red cards. Despite Long Beach earning a 1-0 advantage early in the first frame, Compton rallied to put two scores in the back of the net in the final eight minutes to hand the Vikings a 1-2 defeat in extra time.

The Vikings had minimal chances in the opening half, but took advantage of a Compton foul in the 33rd minute allowing them a free kick. Sophomore forward Victor Naves (Long Beach, CA) lofted up a dime to freshman defender Christopher Ribet (Cerritos, CA) who promptly banged in a header to grab the first score of the game. With the score, Ribet has scored four goals in the past two games.

Long Beach came out firing in the second half, compliments of attempts from freshman midfielder Nicholas Vasquez (Long Beach, CA) and freshman forward Carlos Maldonado (Long Beach, CA), respectfully. A backline consisting of sophomore Hector Rojo (Bellflower, CA) Anthony Gonzales (Compton, CA), and Fabio Mujica (San Juan Pedro, CA) did all they could to preserve the lead by blocking passing lanes and clearing potential through-balls to protect their own third.

However, a foul in the box in the 83rd minute handed Compton a penalty kick which they converted to tie up the ball game. Compton went on to score in extra time to hand the Vikings a stunning, 1-2 defeat.

Freshman goalkeeper Saul Ocampo (Hawaiian Gardens, CA) picked up his first loss at home on the season after hauling in two saves in 90 minutes of work.

LBCC (2-6-3, 1-1-1 SCC) look to rebound against L.A. Harbor on Thursday, October 13 on the road at 4 p.m.