In the first half of the game, both sides were evenly matched and both had their opportunities to score, but in the end only West scored.  In the 15th minute of the game, Bishop Amat nearly scored.  A throw-in almost led to a scoring opportunity, with the ball bouncing off the crossbar.  After this, West tightened up their defense and had multiple shots-on-goal before Shane Melnyk (12) scored in the 28th minute.  The ball skipped off a few defenders and went into the goal.  

  In the second half, West continued to display a great defense by not giving Bishop Amat any legitimate scoring opportunities.  West had a few chances to score, created by their ability to get to the ball quickly and effectively keep possession when the ball was in the air, but Bishop Amat’s goalkeeper saved the ball multiple times.   

  The weather played a role in the game. The rain created puddles on the field that affected the direction and speed at which the ball traveled throughout the game.  These conditions made defense especially important because a small error could lead to a goal and West’s defense showed they could handle the pressure.

  “Coming into [the game] we knew the conditions were going to be a big factor…  Every touch in the back was going to be tough and our defense did a good job of taking care of the ball,” stated winger Marco Fields (11).

  Attacking center midfielder Cameron Korshavn (11) believes that although their  

next playoff game, when they face Camarillo, will be difficult, they have the strength necessary to win.

  “Camarillo was the underdog last game and [they] won so we can’t underestimate them.  An away game in playoffs is going to be tough but as long as we have the grit and stay mentally focused we should come out on top.”

  In the last few years, West has struggled to go far in the playoffs.  Last year, West did not make the playoffs and the year before that, they lost in the first round.  Midfielder Andrew Hazzard (11) believes that it’s time for the Warriors to win the CIF title.

  “Every game is going to be a new challenge. We just have to be prepared and come out ready to play.  I believe that if the boys soccer program is going to win a [CIF] title anytime in the next decade, this is the year we’re going to do it.”

  The Warriors hope to capitalize on their momentum from this win as they take on Camarillo at Coastal Canyon in the second round of CIF playoffs Wednesday February 22 at 3 p.m.