If one of the many San Benito shots would have found its way
into the net, it would be a different story during Thursday’s 2-0
loss to visiting Palma.
The Balers (4-7-2, 1-3-1 TCAL) were coming into the game needing
a win to stay in contention in the Tri-County Athletic League for a
possible postseason berth. But with three losses, it will be almost
impossible to make the playoffs.
If one of the many San Benito shots would have found its way into the net, it would be a different story during Thursday’s 2-0 loss to visiting Palma.
The Balers (4-7-2, 1-3-1 TCAL) were coming into the game needing a win to stay in contention in the Tri-County Athletic League for a possible postseason berth. But with three losses, it will be almost impossible to make the playoffs.
But the Balers could make something happen in the second half of the season especially if they can knock off league front runners Gilroy and Live Oak. San Benito battled both teams tough the first time, tying Live Oak and losing 3-2 to Gilroy.
About 20 minutes into the game, Len Lebarre stole a pass and then put it in the net to put Palma (4-9-1, 2-4 TCAL) on the board. But the Balers almost answered right back. Ernesto Lostanau played a ball up to Andrade Fausto. Fausto slid into the goal with the ball, but the goal was not allowed.
“We just wanted to come out and match their energy,” said Palma coach. “They got some great guys. No. 20 (Ernesto Lostanau) and No. 7 (Jonathan Alouso) are dangerous.”
Both guys were creating opportunities for the Balers early in the game.
“It seemed like we kept pressing and pressing,” said coach Mike Warner. “Instead of putting the ball on net, we were taking the power kick and not being patient.”
Shortly before the end of the first half, Lostanau was pushed down inside the box from behind while his back was facing the goal. But Jorge Lopez missed the penalty kick wide left.
In the second half, Palma got its second goal on a penalty kick from Humero Gaona.
The second goal seemed to re-energize the Balers, and they kept the ball on their side for most of the remainder of the game.
“Once they get that second goal, we had seven guys attacking, but we still couldn’t get anything in the net,” Warner said.
The Baler will play against Live Oak on Monday.
JV Note: The JV Balers (7-4-2, 4-0-1) maintained their hold on first place in league play with a 5-2 victory over Palma.
Midfielders Eddie Trujillo and Christian Mercado both scored their first goals of the season in the first half, and Armando Espinoza added third for a decisive lead before Palma put in its first goal of the day.
The second half had Palma scoring quickly, forcing the Balers to regain their intensity. Joel Arguilar responded with a goal at 6:10 and again at 23:45 to take a comfortable lead.
Alden Wiltse and Jose Carlos Vasquez played strong defensive games. Again the bench responded late in the game and shut the visitors down while adding excitement with frequent break away opportunities.
