Monroe’s Doctrine Pays Off

Monroe High has used a strong defense to build a reputation as one of the region’s top boys’ soccer teams and it was put to the test Wednesday at Poly in a 1-0, Valley Pac-8 Conference victory over the Parrots.

The Vikings (7-0-2, 7-0-2 in league play) scored in the 12th minute when a throw-in by Ismael Valencia bounced into the penalty area and off a defender to Rodolfo Quiroz, who kicked it in from five yards.

Monroe laid back and held on, withstanding an offensive push by the Parrots (3-2-4, 3-2-4) that lasted virtually the entire second half and pinned the Vikings in their own end.

“In the last 10 minutes I was worried because they were getting too many shots and too close to the goal,” said Valencia, a sweeper whose direction and unruffled demeanor were key.

Jose Loza, Poly’s coach, said the loss was not without value. He discovered an impact player--defender Miguel Ceja, who recently returned from academic ineligibility.

With Ceja able to man the back line, sweeper Miguel Luquin was free to team with Erick Calvillo at midfield and forward, making the Parrots more explosive.

“We had a lot of chances but they didn’t drop,” Loza said. “But still, it was one of our best games and I think we will be stronger now.”