COSTA MESA – After scoring 16 goals over the last three games, the Vanguard men's soccer team switched gears to blank The Master's, 1-0, in a Golden State Athletic Conference defensive battle on Saturday at VU Soccer Field.
Robert Ronco notched his fifth goal of the season – and second game-winner – burying a 50th minute shot to lead the Lions to their fifth win in a row. The sophomore converted on his only shot of the game to give goalkeeper Alex Felix his first shutout in his first career start with the Blue and Gold.
The Lions (7-1-4, 3-0-0 GSAC) were stingy on defense, keeping the Mustangs without a shot in the first half. VU also created a ton of chances off set pieces, enjoying a 12-4 advantage in corner kicks.
Austin Tubbs and Nathaniel Gomez tied for team-high honors with three shots apiece.
Felix made three saves, including two in the final four minutes.
Theo Kudlo led The Master's (6-3-3, 2-1-1) with a match-high four shots. Keeper Kian Bensend stopped two shots for the Mustangs.
What Happened?: After a scoreless first half in which VU outshot TMU 6-0, the Lions knocked home the game's only goal at the 49:55 mark.
Markus Garcia took a shot inside the box that was blocked by a TMU defender, but the rebound went to Ronco, and his follow beat Bensend for the goal. Garcia received an assist, his third of the year.
The Mustangs recorded their first shot of the game in the 55th minute, but eventually created more chances as the game wore on.
Felix made a save on Prince Chingancheke in the 68th minute. The Mustangs had a flurry of shots over the final three and a half minutes as they succeeded in drawing fouls deep in Lion territory. A couple of set pieces resulted in dangerous chances, but the Lions avoided the equalizer.
Why Is It Important?: VU defeated the Mustangs by a 1-0 score for the second time this season. The Lions won in Santa Clarita in a September nonconference game.
What Was Said?: "We were missing some key players today against a very good opponent," said Head Coach Jesus Miramontes. "These guys stepped in and were big time. It shows the depth we have. We defended very well and created some quality chances. I'm proud of these guys."
What's Next?: A showdown against GSAC-leading Menlo on Thursday, October 19 at VU Soccer Field. Kickoff is 1:00 p.m.
