'Dogs fall in close match with alumni

By John McHugh

The Fresno State men’s soccer team lost against alumni in a close game at Bulldog stadium, Sunday night.

After 77 minutes, Erik Farfan scored the only goal of the game, after braking through the defense and producing a good save from goalkeeper Kronberg, which rebounded out for him to score in the bottom corner.

The 1-0 loss did not tell the whole story as Fresno State dominated the possession and out-shot the returning Bulldogs 11 to 6. Fresno State’s problem was that they didn’t create enough shots on goal.

“ We lacked initiative in attack, our backs were against the wall,” Fresno State coach Dave Chesler said.

The annual alumni game was scheduled as an exhibition, though there was nothing friendly about the contest. The returning Bulldogs made it very difficult for Fresno State, and a lot of the tackles were fiercely contested.

The result could have been very different, as forward Jeremiah Leroy beat alumni goalkeeper Jeremy Proud with only one minute to go, only to hit the post and the ball to be cleared.

“ We had some dangerous chances.” Chesler said.

Up until the goal, Fresno State created chances of their own. The Bulldogs’ best chance fell to freshman striker Albert Naugle, who disappointingly shot wide after a cross from Andrew Gregorio.

A lot of freshman were given a start to see if they could compete with the starters for places.

“ Some of the starting freshman were a little tentative.” Chesler said.

Other starters Andrew Gregorio and Marvin Sorto also made an impact in attack after coming off the bench.

“ Gregorio and Marvin were also dangerous in the second half.”

The pick of the alumni players was former Bulldog Noah Delgado.

“ (Delgado’s) very good on the ball and a very ambitious player.” Chesler said.

Following his scholarship at Fresno State, the L.A Galaxy drafted Delgado.

“ He was our top attacking player over the years he was with us.” Chesler said.

Fresno State at times showed why they only scored 17 goals in 20 games last season.

“ A lot of the players were not inventive. They stopped playing in the game and the problem can only be changed with experience. We really need players who want to have an impact.” Chesler said.

Coach Chesler’s pick from the Bulldogs was experienced captain, Niño Rivas.