The first game for coach Ben Alvarez was highlighted by in-game
adjustments that allowed San Benito to pull out a 2-2 tie against
North Monterey County Friday.
CASTROVILLE
The first game for coach Ben Alvarez was highlighted by in-game adjustments that allowed San Benito to pull out a 2-2 tie against North Monterey County Friday.
Playing on the road in Castroville to open their 2007-08 season, the Haybalers came back from a one goal deficit in the first half, but would also relinquish a one-goal lead in the second half.
For the first game of the season, though, Alvarez called the performance by San Benito “beautiful.”
“For the first game, I was very happy with the outcome and the way we were able to adjust from that goal,” the coach said. “My players knew what needed to be done and they adjusted very well.”
The ‘Balers started the game slow, Alvarez said, and North Monterey got on the scoreboard in the 15th minute off a penalty kick as a result.
“We started slow for about 20 minutes,” Alvarez added. “I think they took us by surprise.
“I was disappointed with the way we started. I talked to some of the players, and I told them we’ve been practicing all week for this game and they adjusted.”
In the 30th minute, San Benito’s Efrain Espinoza pocketed his first goal of the season off a penalty kick and tied the game 1-1.
“Right after the 20th minute,” Alvarez said, “we took control and things started to happen.”
Later, German Garcia gave the ‘Balers a one-goal lead in the 40th minute off a shot from the left side that was assisted by Jose Granados.
But trailing 2-1 at halftime, North Monterey County would tie the game 2-2 at the beginning of the second half, and would control the middle for the remainder of the game.
“We were winning but we made a mental mistake in the second half and they tied it up,” Alvarez said. “They spent way too much time on our end and we’re going to work on that.”
San Benito (0-0-1) will have their home-opener on Tuesday against Gonzales. The game will begin at 3:30 p.m.
