SCC TOPS MESA AFTER CLOSE LOSSES

After several close losses to open the 2006 season, the Scottsdale men's soccer team turned the tables on Wednesday with a 2-1 victory over Mesa.

The Chokes' first goal came from a well rehearsed free kick just outside of the penalty area.  The bal;l was placed into the back of the net by Michael Anaya after an excellent pass from Micheal Vernon.

After holding the 1-0 lead into the locker room at halftime, the Artichokes dominated play in the second half.  The 'Chokes took a 2-0 advantage in the 63rd minute with a beautifully taken shot by freshman Matt Gracey.

Scottsdale continued to pressure the ball and had many more scoring chances, but could not find the nets the rest of the way.

With fifteen minutes to go, Mesa clawed one back making the score 2-1off of a long ball from a defender to the striker. Ian Binney, the SCC sweeper, slipped at the vital moment and Mesa found themselves back in the game.

"The last fifteen minutes were the longest I can remember." said SCC Head Coach Adam Berry.  "We played really well and the boys deserved the win, but we did make it exciting for ourselves in the end."