A successful 2-0-1 start to the 2022 season has everything to with the way the Pasadena City College men's soccer team has battled through adversity and closed out its recent games. It's the best start to a season for PCC since 2016.
On Friday at Robinson Stadium, the Lancers dug out of a 2-0 hole in the first half v. visiting Palomar and earned a 2-2 tie.
In the 27th minute, Osmar Rojas sent a quick pass to a wide open Kevin Marquez who knocked in the point-blank shot for a goal that cut the score to 2-1.
In the 48th minute, Brian Asaije was stopped on a penalty kick by Palomar goalie Max Subra. Asaije quickly got to the loose ball and was again stoned by Subra, but Esai Matchan received the rebound and scored on a leaping kick that knotted things.
In the 79th minute, Rojas was robbed on a drive inside the goalie box by Subra. In the 89th minute, it was the Lancers turn to stop Palomar. Goalie Chris Morozan made a super save on an 8-yard blast by Alex Vidican. Diego Flores and Asaije both made blocks on close-range Comets attempts.
On Sept. 1, the Lancers went down to 10 players when goalkeeper Kristopher Gutierrez was called for a red card on a breakaway in the 23rd minute, but inspired play the rest of the way resulted in a 1-0 win at Southwestern College.
In the 72nd minute, Jordy Aviles directed a pass to Omar Gonzalez who dribbled the ball to midfield and then sent a diagonal pass to Rojas. A give-and-go with Matchan at the top of the box allowed Rojas free space and he booted in the winning goal. Aviles had a strong defensive performance in blocking several attempts and Diego Flores was vital in the team's offensive attack upfield. Both Matchan and Rojas carried the play to set up a few other opportunities.
Morazan came off the bench to make eight saves and earn his first collegiate victory.
"We are finding ways to not let setbacks get in our way," Mora said. "We really played well late in the last two games despite dealing with the tough heat conditions. This is where our depth has benefitted us as we have been able to sub in and out key players and not lose our momentum."
On Tuesday, Sept. 6, the Lancers play at local rival Glendale College in a later 7:30 p.m. kickoff.