With more than 5,100 fans in attendance, Orange County Soccer Club took on I-5 rival San Diego Loyal. When the final whistle sounded, many felt heartbreak as OC fell 3-2 after giving up an 85th-minute goal.
Photo Credit: Grayson Butterfas
However, frustration is the word resounding among the fan base.
“We have one of the best players in the league with Milan, who may end up with the Golden Boot, but we’re in last place. It’s frustration.” longtime County Line Coalition member, Keith Jenks said. “A strong offense can’t save an overly reckless defense.”
Was Saturday’s defense reckless or were things one-sided? Orange County committed 16 fouls and was shown 7 yellow cards. San Diego was shown just one yellow while committing 14 fouls. Seems a bit unbalanced. “The accumulation of one-sided yellow cards, by an official who never had control of the game, was a frustration felt by all,” Chuck Eldridge said.
Photo Credit: Grayson Butterfas
To give away the lead twice was a tough pill to swallow for all.
Alfie Saunders, 11 years old, who attended the game with his dad, Matt (If you get a chance, check out Matt’s Eric Cantona tattoo), said, “I was disappointed to see the team give away the lead, especially since Milan scored two (more) great goals.”
Losing never makes a fan base happy. However, every team loses games. It’s unavoidable. In some seasons, much more than anyone wants (as is the case this season). “Losing a rivalry game like that, made it feel worse,” the younger Saunders said.
Despite both the heartbreak and frustration many of us still feel a sense of hope.
Photo Credit: Grayson Butterfas
County Line Coalition Founder and Chant leader, Blaine Jenks, “We’re still in the running for the Golden Boot.”
Another long-time CLC member, drummer Andy King pointed out, “It’s not like we got blown out. San Diego is sitting in second place, and it took everything they had to beat us by a single goal. He would add, “We have nothing to hang our heads about.”
While frustration was clear on the faces of the players when the final whistle sounded, and as some quickly headed to the locker room, the CLC continued in its post-game tradition of celebrating the players who come over to them in acknowledgment of their continued support. Daniel Pedersen and fan-favorite Seth Casiple both applauded the Coalition’s tireless efforts.
Both Matt and Alfie Saunders shared this final thought and message to the team, “We believe in this squad. We have immense talent and are extremely dangerous in the final third of the pitch. We are there to support you all. Never give in and fight to the end to make the playoffs.”
For County!
“Never give in and fight to the end to make the playoffs.”