The La Cañada High School varsity boys’ soccer team picked up its first win of the season with a 1-0 victory over visiting Monrovia last Friday.
After tying their first two games, the Spartans (1-0-2 overall record) were able to put together a solid 80 minutes on both sides of the ball.
The back line – consisting of Garrett Morikawa, Daniel Pinski, Liam Rea and Luke Hong – was able to keep Monrovia’s attack under control the entire game. Goalkeeper Nick Boghossian had a couple key saves for the shutout.
Midfielders Chris Boghossian, Ethan Godby and Noah Truong continue with their aggressive play, creating attacking opportunities. Connor Grogan and Kenneth Park also contributed key minutes in the midfield.
The Spartans’ offense pressured Monrovia’s defense with solid play from forward Tyler Na-Nakornpanom and wingers Andrew Ignatian and Alec Sodonis. In the 48th minute of the game, Andrew Ignatian made a tackle on the ball in the midfield, regaining possession and connected with Ethan Godby for the Spartans’ only goal.
La Cañada 3
South Pasadena 3
What looked to be an easy win for the Spartans ended in a 3-3 draw last week. LC’s front line applied heavy pressure early on, capitalizing on South Pasadena’s defensive errors with two early goals from Tyler Na-Nakornpanom.
Shortly after, defender Garrett Morikawa connected with Alec Sodonis for the Spartans’ third goal. La Cañada then took its collective foot off the gas, allowing the talented Tigers to score two goals off of set pieces and ending the half with a 3-2 score.
Both teams had scoring opportunities in the second half with the momentum and ball possession favoring South Pasadena.
Spartan goalie Nick Boghossian had several key saves, including a spectacular penalty kick save. South Pasadena scored in the 70th minute off of another corner kick, tying the game at 3-3.
