Extraordinary win at Home

by Matt Warner

Extraordinary win at Home


(TURLOCK, CA. February 10th, 2017)--- Turlock Express (6-11) began tonight's match knowing an easy game was not going to be the case as they faced one of the top MASL teams, Soles de Sonora (13-3). Sonora arrived to Turlock with the mindset of extending their winning streak on the road after taking the first victory against Ontario Fury but a true team effort from the Express secured a well deserved win over Soles with the final score of 8-5. 


Fans at Turlock Indoor witnessed a fully fueled Turlock team, who opened up the game with the first goal of the night by one of Express youngest players, Carlos Manzo. Soles de Sonora not accustomed to being behind found the equalizer with 3 minutes to spare before the opening quarter came to an end. Adrian Pulido and Martyn Arista put one away each for the Express ending the 1st quarter with a 3-2 lead. 


An ongoing battle to gain possession and of course the advantage was seen between both MASL teams in the second quarter. Franck Tayou who currently leads Sonora with an outstanding 42 goals, was not able to get a goal for Soles but did contribute an assist to teammate Erick Rosas. Rosas had 2 goals in the second quarter that gave Sonora their first lead. It wasn’t long until Ivan Campos shoots one in with an assist by Adrian Pulido that tied the game once more. Martyn Arista who is currently Turlock’s leading scorer broke the tie with only 19 seconds left in the quarter rightfully taking back the lead. 


With only 2 quarters left in the match, Soles started off the 3rd quarter strong, seeking a lead and wishing to extend, however Goalkeeper Christopher Welch had one if not the best game yet denying the powerful shots from Sonora. The only goal scored in the 3rd quarter was by Turlock increasing their lead to a score of 7-5. 


A total of 2 shootouts occurred tonight in favor of the Express, both were taken by Adrian Gutierrez. Turlock however only capitalized on one of the 2. Soles began to desperately look for room to advance and get back on the scoreboard turned to a 6th attacker. 


Despite the extra man in the play for Sonora, The Express pulled through with an extraordinary performance by every player on the roster tonight that ultimately gave them the big win.


Turlock remains at home the following week to host El Paso Coyotes. For more information for this upcoming match visit Turlockexpress.com.


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.