March 16, 2009
Fullerton, Calif. - Coach Bob Ammann Reports on Spring Soccer:
"Spring season got off to a good start, winning both games while seeing a number of new faces (10) play for the first time. We have been working very hard and it was finally good to play a game to test ourselves and see where we were.
"The first game versus Cal State San Bernardino (coached by ex-Titan Noah Kooiman) saw seven new faces making their debut. With all the new faces on the field it was freshman returner Kevin Venegas who opened the scoring with a solid strike from about 25 yards out. The teams would eventually be tied, 1-1, at the half after San Bernardino equalized on a set piece. The second half saw redshirt freshman Jameson Campbell score the first of his career on a rebound off a Mike Denny shot that the keeper couldn't hold. Chris Quaresma and Tyler Andrews each played a half in goal.
"All saying I thought that we played well. I knew Noah would have his boys excited to play us. Apart from a couple of instances I thought the team and new players did well. We created a number of quality chances, controlled the tempo and limited our opponents chances. Final score, Titans, 2-1.
"The final game of the day was against NCAA D-II Champions' Cal State Dominguez Hills. Jesse Horta scored off a great individual effort down the flank by redshirt, Jon Birt, whose cross was easily redirected past the falling Toro keeper. Redshirt Pablo Gonzalez and freshman Trevor Whiddon each played a half in goal for the combined shutout.
"I was very pleased with our performance and felt that the score could have easily been by a wider margin. Our possession was good and we created a number of chances. The improvement that the team showed in these two games shows that our work is paying and will continue to pay dividends. The goal for the day was to win two games and get better and we accomplished both. Final score, Titans, 1-0.
"We return to action this weekend playing at the University of San Diego against San Diego State and the host Toreros. Games times are 12:30 and 2:30 p.m."