Men’s soccer falls in season opener

By Lucas Almeida
The Guardsman

City College men’s soccer had great memories from last year’s season against Merritt College with a 5-0 win. At this year’s season opener though, things went differently.

On a cold, foggy afternoon, Merritt shut out the Rams, 1-0 in their opening game of the season on Aug. 26.

The Thunderbirds started the game playing a consistent, offensive brand of soccer that made for more clear chances of scoring in the first half.

16 minutes in Merritt sophomore forward Prince Bere received a pass in the 18-yard box and shot strongly on the post, scaring off City College goalkeeper Kevin Gonzales.

The game was very nervous and tense with hard tackles coming from both sides.

Penalized with a red card late in the first half, the Rams had a difficult time attacking and reorganizing their defense with one less player.

In the 55th minute, Bere put the ball in the back of the net for the only goal of the game.

City College argued with the referee, asking for an offsides after Ram’s goalkeeper Kevin Gonzalez couldn’t do anything to save the quick play as the Thunderbirds took the 1-0 lead.

That was all the Thunderbirds needed to get their first win of the season.

Rams head coach Adam Lucarelli was not so happy about losing their season opening game at home, but he still has great expectations for this year’s season.

“I think it will get better,” Lucarelli said. “I expect that we’re gonna be good, but soccer is that way. Sometimes you don’t get the result but I think we’re going to have a good season.”

The Rams look to their next home match Sept. 9, when they will face College of Marin. Kickoff is at 4 p.m.