Despite San Diego Mesa College’s strong efforts to prevent rival San Diego City College from scoring at the game on Oct. 28, they were unsuccessful, resulting in City College’s win 1-2.

City came into the game with a record of 6-1-1 in conference; Mesa’s current record is 2-3-4. This was Mesa’s third time playing City. In their first game City defeated Mesa 4-1. The next game at home, Mesa didn’t allow City a goal resulting in a 1-0 victory.

“This was a grudge match, City and Mesa are considered rivals and brings out the best in both squad,” said coach Abdelghani Toumi.

The game was at City and the field was a disadvantage for the Mesa players.

“Field obviously played a major role because we are used to playing on a bigger field with turf,” said coach Toumi. “Overall I think the players really handled themselves well in that game and dealt with the circumstances.”

Adam Zeman stood out in the game in the eyes of coach Toumi.  He successfully went in to the game with a good strategy.

“It definitely is always a difficult fast pace game on their field,” said Adam Zeman.
Adam Zeman also comments on the teams’ strategy

“I wanted to distribute the ball well out of the back and get to my feet and switch and look for diagonals, manly just quick one twos because the field is so small,” said Adam Zeman.

Even though City was able to score early in the first half, Mesa didn’t give up the fight.

“We gave up a goal in first half, the responds from team was really good they kept fighting got a goal right before the half to tie the game,” said coach Toumi

The rivalry made this an interesting game for spectators to watch.

City’s players became more aggressive towards Mesa’s. Not only were the players passionate about winning this game but also so was the coaching staff, whom seemed unpleased with the referees’ calls.

Despite City’s tough playing Mesa was able to get one goal past them, preventing this from being a blowout game.

Goalkeeper Matthew Zeman also stood out in the game.

“Matthew had really good saves in the game,” said coach Toumi.

“Manage the time when we’re up [we] waste as much time as we can and when we’re down play as quickly as possible, that was my game plan,” said Matthew Zeman about his on personal strategy.

Matthew Zeman also stated that their strategy would’ve proven more useful if they were playing on a bigger field.
Mesa next opponent, Southwestern College has also been unable to defeat City but have an overall record of 12-3-2.