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Eagles Grounded By Jesuit

Jesuit 3, East Lake 2

By Eric Horchy | The Suncoast News

Published: February 6, 2008

TARPON SPRINGS - TARPON SPRINGS - The East Lake High boy's soccer season came to an end Tuesday night, losing to Jesuit 3-2 at home in the Class 5A Region 3 semifinals.

Despite holding leads of 1-0 and 2-1, the Eagles were unable to contain a resilient Jesuit attack that refused to back down.

The Tiger's Josh Menendez booted in the eventual game-winner with just over seven minutes remaining. From 35 yards out, Menendez struck a low, hard shot that seemed to catch East Lake goalkeeper David Kirkbride off guard and roll cleanly into the left corner.

The victory finished off Jesuit's playoff sweep of the best District 5A-9 had to offer. They previously beat East Lake rival Palm Harbor University Thursday night, 3-0.

"I'm at a loss for words right now," East Lake head coach Sergei Stopek said. "I'm proud of my kids. All year they've dealt with tremendous adversity. This is just one game where they couldn't overcome it."

The Eagles (12-2-2) took the early 1-0 advantage only four minutes into play. Junior Juan Alcala scored the goal following a Jesuit turnover deep in their territory.

Both squads traded off pressuring one another after the initial East Lake goal, and it was not until extra time in the first half that Jesuit managed to tie things up.

Forward Arthur Beil was credited with the score after receiving an assist from junior Russell Moore.

East Lake again pulled in front less than 10 minutes into the second half when Alcala netted his second goal.

The Eagles caught a break on the strange score. Completely unchallenged, Jesuit goalkeeper Max Renaldo ran out to grab the ball bouncing harmlessly toward him. As he lowered to grab possession, Renaldo suddenly slipped to his left and the ball caromed off his chest and past him. Still rushing toward the goal box, Alcala was suddenly all alone in front of a wide-open net.

Jesuit (26-2-0) was able to silence the home crowd nearly six minutes later. Greg Sasser tied the game 2-2 off of a direct kick from Keith Sierra.

Jesuit advances to play Bradenton Southeast Friday night at home.

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