Soccer sweeps Tyler for Region XIV title

Goalkeeper Gabriel Rodriguez records eight saves in the win

Amanda L. Booren - 11/3/2008 The San Jacinto College men’s soccer team won its fifth-straight Region XIV title Saturday with a 5-0 defeat of Tyler. Credit: Kyle Smith.

HOUSTON – With an offensive explosion and great play in the goal, San Jacinto College won its fifth-straight Region XIV men’s soccer title Saturday, defeating Tyler Junior College 5-0.

San Jac (14-1-2), the top seed for the tournament, entered the match well rested, receiving a bye into the championship game after Coastal Bend College cancelled its trip to the tournament. Tyler (13-4-1) defeated Lon Morris 5-0 in Friday’s lone semifinal match.

The two teams played to defensive battle to start the match, but San Jac’s offense struck first, with just over 20 minutes to play in the first half, on a penalty kick by Gilbert Barahona that was a result from a break away foul by Jesus Santiago. San Jacinto College would go on to score two more in the first half, with goals from Josue Garcia and Mozesh Gyorio. Gyorio would later assist on two other goals, and Eddie Campbell would score in the second half to help San Jac put away the Apaches.

Sophomore goalkeeper Gabriel Rodriguez had an outstanding game, helping to blank Tyler with eight saves, which brings his season total to 25.

San Jac will play for the South District championship this Friday and Saturday, November 7 and 8, at Tyler. The winner of the district tournament advances to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) tournament November 20-23 in Phoenix, Arizona.

For more information about San Jacinto College soccer, please visit www.sanjacsports.com