Sockers Resounding 12-1 Win Over Turlock Express
Famed Kraig Chiles scored 3 goals and earned 2 assists last night as the San Diego Sockers showed their winning style, earning a 12-1 victory against the Turlock Express in the Home Opener. While Chiles was magnificent in the arena — as always — it was a team effort that earned the win.
The San Diego Sockers started the 2016/17 MASL season last night with an exciting victory over the Turlock Express. As the players congratulated each other after every goal — and there were 12 celebrations — an infectious enthusiasm rose from the arena.
The San Diego Sockers absolutely flattened the Turlock Express from the start of the match. Fans were thrilled to watch the fast paced soccer action and felt connected to the team.
In a town known for its fickle sports’ fans, the San Diego Sockers have always held a part of America’s Finest City’s heart.
The #QuestFor15 — the quest for San Diego Sockers’ 15th Championship — is off to a very successful start. And, the success of the 2016-2017 Home Opener runs deeper than the final score — in conquering Turlock Express, the players showed everyone their new team chemistry.
More than 3,000 soccer fans showed up to watch the season opener and all shared the pride as the veterans and newcomers came together to bring home the stunning win.
It was perfect — Former 3-Time MVP and Captain Kraig Chiles scored the first goal of the night and netted a hat trick even before half time. The Sockers went into half time with a 9-0 lead.
“The organization has put together a very well balance team this year,” says Chiles. “A good group of veteran players, some very talented players who are in the best form of thir lives — and, younger energetic players who have something to prove.”
“Last night, we worked really hard for each other,” says Chiles.
“We did some very good things, but there is still a lot to work ahead. We will break down the game film this week, make adjustments and get ready for a very talented Dallas Sidekicks,” says Chiles.
Evidenced by a veteran Eddie “Vaquero” Velez celebratory “Jarabe Tapatio” dance after scoring a pair of goals in the first half, the players were having a great time being in the arena together. In fact, the San Diego Sockers’ players were all clicking — connecting with each other in the arena.
There were several standout performances, Luan Oliveira scored his first goal of the season, newcomer Max Touloute bagged his first two goals and Brandon Escoto showed off his moves dribbling around defenders.
From the stable of veterans who suited up for the game, Sockers’ defensive captain Ze Roberto and defender Scott Martin showed they were better than ever and midfielder Anthony Medina and defender Eduardo Velez each scored two goals.
Who scored those 12 goals?
- Kraig Chiles scored 3 goals and earned 2 assists
- Eddie Velez scored 2 goals
- Max Touloute scored 2 goals
- Anthony Medina scored 2 goals
- Luan Oliveira scored 1 goal
- Raymundo Reza scored 1 goal
- Erick Tovar scored 1 goal
The player who grew up watching and playing for the Sockers was the among the most impressive in the season home opener — goalkeeper Chris Toth was imperious in goal, with the exception of one lone goal that made its way into the back of the net moments after the second half started.
Toth looked magisterial in front of the goal and moved around the arena with the ease and confidence that only comes from hard work and talent.
With an amazing 22 shots fired, Toth saved 21 — the lone goal earned by Turlock’s Jose Barajas. The Turlock Express’ goalkeepers, Edgar Martinez and Christopher Welch failed in comparison – –saving only 20 of the Sockers’ 32 bullets.
Sockers newcomers Cesar Cerda and Felipe Gonzalez also made their debut.
With a legacy of 14 championship to their credit, the Sockers last help up the champions trophy in 2012. The #QuestFor15 in the 2016/17 season has begun with a rewarding result. After such an exciting triumph, make sure you show up when The Sockers are back in action next week hosting their traditional rival — the Dallas Sidekicks — at Valley View Casino Center. Kickoff is slated for 7:05pm PT.
Editors’ Note: If it looks like a big celebration, it was.
Photo Credit: Diane Scavuzzo
