Recap
Irvine, CA — Foothill arrived at Northwood on an unbeaten streak but showing the signs of a bit of wear with quite a few players unable to suit up. Foothill had beaten Northwood 5-0 last year in Northrup Stadium. The Knights would not be able to recreate that on the Timberwolves home pitch.
Two quick goals by Northwood in the 3rd and 11th minutes due to poor defending by the Knights started off the scoring. Tyler Valdez brought the Knights back within 1, scoring on a great team goal in the 23rd minute on the assist from Kevin Ambrocio. Unfortunately, an unforced error in the 38th minute by the Knights' defense gave the ball away outside the 18 yard line for an easy finish by Northwood. Foothill responded 1 minute later when Jacob Garcia flicked the ball on to Kevin Ambrocio who torched the keeper with an amazingly struck ball.
The Knights were a stronger team in the second half and appeared to be waking up but the progress was halted by penalty given in the 67th minute. Foothill scored again in the 73rd minute when Mitch Sampson stole the ball, played it in to Tyler Valdez who set up Kevin Ambrocio for the finish. Foothill continued to knock on the door but it was too little too late at that point.
Sadly, the Knights' lethargic start and uncharacteristically poor defensive showing handicapped themselves. We hope to learn from this loss and build back stronger than before. Next up for the Knights is the Huntington Beach Turf Tournament Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and possible final on Monday.