With 15 players available for OC and a bunch of Riverside rookies looking for more game time, it was decided that the depleted Swans would combine with some RFC players and the clubs would play a 12-a-side match on the bigger Riverside field. This enabled the big number of first and second year players from all clubs to get in all the game time they wanted, with a Shark rookie joining the Swans as well.

This was especially good for the Jets, with all players enjoying the bigger field and numbers. Easily the best game so far with a solid 4 quarter effort from every single player. The load was spread so evenly that it's difficult to pick the standouts, but a few guys had break out games. Paul Lima, in his first game for the club and coming off a broken toe, was thrown into the midfield and slotted in perfectly, playing a sweeping role a kick behind the play. The 12 a side format meant an extra player in the middle, and Paul worked beautifully with KB Nelson, Brad Wetherall and Tyler Mounce to take almost complete control of the midfield. Best on ground in his first game for the Jets.

Tyler Mounce continued his great form with another solid performance, and the new midfield combination of him, Nelson and Wetherall is really starting to click. This is a completely new midfield brigade and it is vital to the Jets success that they become a dominant one as was the case last year. With more 12 a side games planned, having Lima as the 4th midfielder will only strengthen it.

Two "second year" players, Zack Caspary and Brandon Atienza, had the breakout games they've been waiting for and where among OC's best. These guys played about a half a game between them last year so they are really thought of as part of the first year group, and it was great to see them getting their hands on the ball and using it well. Other members of this group continue to improve, Steve Ryzdon's tackling pressure in defense is becoming noticeable, creating turnovers and clearing the ball. Mitch Lasser got some valuable experience and shows great small forward potential.

Once again the defense held firm, and were bolstered by the return of half back Mike Hertstein. Missing Seb Aguira through suspension, Hersh was a welcome sight back on the field. Robert Alexander had his best game so far, playing a classic center half back role, taking strong marks and rebounding well. Great to see Robbo getting some confidence after his knee reconstruction last year.

 

LA Swans vs OC Jets

 

Los Angeles Swans - Q1:2.1 Q2: 1.1 Q3: 1.1 Q4: 2.1      TOTAL: 6.4.40

 

Orange County Jets – Q1: 2.5 Q2: 3.5 Q3: 5.2 Q4: 1.3      TOTAL: 11.15.81

 

Los Angeles Goal Kickers – Corey Irwin (2), Matt Sovereign, Thomas O’Neil, Colter Allison, ?

 

Orange County Goal Kickers – Andy Treanor (3), Zach Caspary (3), Brandon Atienza (2), Marc Gleeson, Steve Rydzon, Tyler Mounce

 

Los Angeles best: Asimos, Sovereign, Crier.