Boys Soccer Preview: Alhambra Off to Promising Start

Head Coach: Mark Eitelgeorge, First Year

2009 Record: 6-7-5

Current 2010 Record: 7-3-1

Top Returning Players: Tyler Sylvia (Jr - Midfielder), Zach Walton (Sr-Defender), Santiago Alejandro (Jr-Defender), Ethan Lipson-Gocken (Jr-Goalkeeper), Victor Mendoza (Sr - injured- Midfielder), Jason Eitelgeorge (Sr - injured-Midfielder), Osiel Mendoza (So.-Midfielder/Defender)

Key Newcomers:  Juan Sanchez (Fr. Defender), Dominic Weir (Fr. Midfielder), Jesus Maldonado (Fr. Forward)

Team Strengths: Speed, Intelligence, Technical skills

Mark the Calendar: Alhambra vs. Campolindo

----------

Although head coach Mark Eitelgeorge see's the 2010 season as a rebuilding one, eleven games into schedule, the Boys soccer team has shown improvement, and matched the win total of the previous four seasons.  With a speedy squad led by junior midfielder Tyler Sylvia, senior captain Zach Walton, and the impressive offensive play of freshmen Dominic Weir and Jesus Maldonado, there's plenty of reason for excitement for the soccer team at Alhambra.

But Eitelgeorge knows there is a tough road ahead, as the Bulldogs enter the heart of a competitive Diablo Foothill Athletic League schedule after the New Year.

"It is still relatively early and our league this year is as tough as in any of the past few years," Eitelgeorge said.  "There are absolutely no weak opponents - It will be difficult to achieve our goal of qualifying for NCS since wins from anyone will be hard to come by."

The Bulldogs have played well in the early going of 2010, sporting a 7-3-1 record, and picking up league wins against Las Lomas and Dublin, last year's DFAL champion.

While the Bulldogs are young, they've been playing with composure, and using their technical skills to keep them in games.

Eitelgeorge has been impressed with the play of Alhambra's three freshmen: Jesus Maldonado, Juan Sanchez, and Dominic Weir.

Maldonado and Weir have provided a boost on the offensive side, while Sanchez has helped secure the defense in front of goalies Ethan Lipson-Gocken and Josh Vega.

Walton has provided steady leadership, and has the flexibility to play defender or midfielder, which gives Eitelgeorge the option to rotate players, and make in-game adjustments.

Walton had a hand in on Dec . 7 against Berean Christian, scoring a game-winning header off a perfect pass from junior Santiago Alejandro.

Eitelgeorge has been pleased with the way his team has competed thus far.

"So far, I'm pleased with the progress, results and dedication of the players," Eitelgeorge said.

After a non-league game against Freedom on Dec. 21, the Bulldogs return to DFAL play on Jan. 5, when they host undefeated Campolindo.

The Cougars play a similar fast, scrappy style as Alhambra, which should make for a close contest.

With eleven games remaining on this year's schedule, the Bulldogs have the opportunity to contend in the DFAL, and advance to the NCS playoffs.

"If we stay healthy, focused and continue to work hard, I think we will continue to compete favorably with anyone in the league and I'm very optimistic that we will achieve our goals," Eitelgeorge said.