The Otero men’s soccer team approaches a very important weekend in which they will face Central Community College and Northeastern Junior College on Friday, September 23 and Saturday, September 24. The rattlers have had a roller-coaster season in which they currently sit with a record of 3 wins and 3 losses.
The latest victory of the three came on Wednesday, September 14 against Trinidad State Junior College, then ranked number 15 in the nation and undefeated. The matches between the Rattlers and Trojans have grown throughout the years to become into what could be considered a rival game. With that in play, the atmosphere at the Trojan’s home was set for a tough battle and an intense 90 minutes of physical soccer.
The Rattlers went up on the score board in the 4th minute of play off of a thrown-in by Treydin Winward, which was then capitalized on by Blaise Balumwa. Only twelve minutes passed before Balumwa had his and the Rattlers’ second of the afternoon thanks to an assist by Gimale Essacu.
The Trojans were awarded a successful penalty kick in the 18th minute to make the score 2-1. The rest of the game concluded with many missed opportunities for both sides and a crucial penalty save from goalkeeper Ventura Dominguez in the 85th minute to keep Trinidad from tying the score.
After a confidence boosting performance, the Rattlers now prepare to face their two Region IX opponents. The Rattlers hope to come out of Columbus, Neb. and Sterling with two victories to improve their record to 5-3.
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