Express visit The Stars

by Matt Warner

Express visit The Stars  


 (TURLOCK, CA. January 19, 2017)--- Turlock Express (5-8) continues on the road this Friday, January 20th at the Showare Center in Kent, Washington as they face The Tacoma Stars who are currently 1st in the Pacific Division of the Major Arena Soccer league. 


Friday night will mark the second encounter for both teams. November 4th which was Turlock’s home opener was the last time they met as Turlock took the win that night with a final score of 7-5 over the Stars giving Tacoma one of their 3 losses this season.


Anibal Echeverria who has been the top offense asset for Turlock showcased his talent that night with 2 goals and 1 assist. SInce then Echeverria has had a total of 16 goals and 5 assists that has landed him in the top leading scorer spot for The Express. 


Midfielder Martyn Arista is not far behind with a total of 15 goals and 5 assists. Turlock will seek goals from these two players Friday night in hopes of an early lead against the Stars. Goalkeeper Christopher Welch who has been the starting Goalkeeper for the Express in all 13 games, is also a key component for Friday’s game. 


The Stars have a few key players of their own that Turlock will need to look out for if a second victory against the Stars is wanted. Tacoma has proven to all this season that they are the team to beat. A valuable contribution to that is Goalkeeper Danny Waltman. Waltman has had various key saves each game that have allowed the 8-3 record that the Stars currently have. Up top the Stars have leading scorer Derek Johnson with 10 goals for Tacoma. Stars Forward Dan Antoniuk is also a dangerous threat to Turlock with 9 goals and 9 assists. 


Friday’s match will be crucial as every team in the MASL is looking for a spot in playoffs. Tacoma will want the victory to remain ahead in the Pacific Division and Turlock will need the win to improve their overall record and hope to move up on the boards.        


Make sure to follow The Express on all social platforms to stay connected with each week’s fortunes. Updates of the game and all Live stats can be found at www.maslsoccer.com, as well as a live broadcast at MASL TV in our Youtube channel.