Penguins down Keelhaulers 4-1

Penguins down Keelhaulers 4-1

Playing their second in a series of tough non-conference games, the California Maritime soccer team traveled to San Rafael Monday afternoon to take on the Penguins of Dominican University.

On a wet and sloppy grass pitch that would have done Bodnar Field proud, the Keelhaulers got off to a slow start and were shocked as Nuri Bon-Acosta put the hosts ahead after just 4 minutes of play.

Dominican played with a lot of pace and Maritime started the game having difficulty dealing with the speed. Kolby Mitnick made life tough for the Maritime defense controlling the right side of the field.

After the first goal, Maritime began to settle down and adjust to the frantic pace of play gaining confidence and as a result saw more of the ball.

This was all undone when a hand ball call went against the Keelhaulers giving the Penguins a penalty shot. David Mendez, powered home the spot kick and the hosts were up by two with 10 minutes left to play in the half.

A defining quality for this year's squad is positive perseverance. When behind in the score, they refuse to give up and continue to work hard as a team. This week against the Penguins the consistent hard work paid off for David Tucker who smashed home his own rebounded shot (rebounded twice ..) to cut the lead in half heading into the break.

Dominican would score two more times in the second half, and in the end ran out comfortable winners. However, Maritime continued to impress, with their hard work and much improved passing game. The visitors were second best on the day, but did manage to cause more than a few uncomfortable moments for the NCAA Division II Dominican Penguins.

Next up, a home game, as the Maritime Keelhaulers take on the Holy Names Hawks at Dan Foley Park. Kick-off is scheduled for 1:00 PM. The Keelhaulers are hoping for some Twelfth Man support as the Hawks are currently undefeated in 2011 conference play as well as being the defending CalPac Conference Champions.