Caught in the winning habit

James Kil, Contributing Writer

Last Thursday, the Brahmas boys soccer team overpowered the Rowland Heights Raiders 4-0 to improve their record to 5-0 in league. Throughout the game, the Diamond Bar team had total control of the game, and came out on top.

Within the first five minutes of the game, senior Spenser Brose sent a through ball to junior Andre Gamboa, who then shot the ball past the diving goalie to score the first goal. A couple of minutes later, Andre Gamboa managed to score again with senior Kelly Craft providing an assist. Senior co-captain Rees Vollebregt, who was at the right place at the right time, scored the last goal in the first half from about 25 yards.

However, after the exciting first half, the Raiders began to command the pace of the game, playing more aggressively to make up for the 3 point difference. Rowland was relentless and gave its all to try to get on the board. However, despite their efforts, they could not get past the Brahmas’ defense.

With Rowland playing tougher, the Brahmas focused solely on defense. After a few passes, the ball finally landed right in front of the goal post, allowing senior co-captain Kyleo Torres to kick a volley that glanced off the post and went in from 10 yards. It was the last goal in the game and increased the Brahama’s lead to 4-0.

“First off, it was outstanding offensively. Defensively, we still made a couple of mistakes that we need to clean up if we want to go deep into the playoffs,” coach Kemp Wells said.

Although DB was missing junior sensation Guy Horcasitas and junior Nico di Donato due to injuries incurred the previous game, the Brahmas were still able to win without any problems. Junior Kevin Kueter was also out of the game due to his meniscus being torn. Craft was injured in the previous game but still decided to play in the game.

As back to back league champions, the Brahmas hopes to go undefeated in season and compete in the playoffs. Diamond Bar has a winning tradition, especially in soccer. Coming off an excellent season, the Brahmas hope to follow suit and win another league champion. However, it will be tough and rigorous, the Brahmas are up to any challenge in their path. With skill and talent, the Brahmas are going to be a tough force to stop in the playoffs. A championship seems imminent.

“Winning league and hopefully going two or three rounds in the playoffs minimum. I mean if we play well we can compete with any team,” Wells said.