The Moorpark Men’s Soccer team started conference play with a bang, cruising to victory 4-1 over College of the Canyons.

The Raiders attacked the Cougars relentlessly, scoring three goals in the first half to take a commanding lead.

It was the defense, however, that energized the Raiders team. Goalkeeper Barry Uko protected the net with precision deflecting several shots on goal.

The first goal came in the 15th minute from Augustin Cazarez on a free kick outside the penalty box. The second goal was not far behind when forward Gerardo Espinoza danced around his defender and kicked the ball into the corner of the net.

To make matters worse for the Cougars, forward Kevin Staley got free on a breakaway and lobbed the ball into the back of the net during stoppage time, giving the Raiders a 3-0 lead going into halftime.

The Cougars came out blazing in the second half, but the Raiders stayed focused and did not let up.

“They came out with a renewed energy,” said coach Sean Roche. “They had nothing to lose, but our guys matched their energy and aggressiveness.”

Forward Josh Hibbert made the game 4-0 when he broke away from his defender and scored in the 55th minute.
Up 4-0, Roche was able to garner some rest for his starters and get other players some playing time. The Raiders used 21 men in the game, a luxury Roche was happy to afford.

“It’s massive, it’s huge,” Roche said. “And we didn’t lose much 1 through 21.”

The Cougars scored late in the game when the game was out of reach. Defenseman Luis Gutierrez slipped and got hurt, and the Cougars took advantage by scoring while Gutierrez was down.

Gutierrez limped off the field, but is hoping to suit up for the Raiders game this Friday against Glendale College.

Roche believed opening up with a win in conference play was a huge boost, especially in dominating fashion.

“We will have added momentum,” said Roche. “Now that it’s conference play, we cannot afford to lose.”