Bulldog boys soccer struggles to score

By Joe Naiman

Valley League play for boys soccer began Jan. 22, the day Ramona High School ended a game at Mission Vista in a 0-0 tie.

The Bulldogs also lost a 1-0 game Jan. 24 at Oceanside to give Ramona a 5-6-5 overall season record along with the 0-1-1 league figure.

“Same old issue. Still can’t score goals,” said coach Michael Jordan.

Ramona took 31 shots against Mission Vista.

“That’s the most shots we’ve ever had and we didn’t score one single goal,” Jordan said. “Second half we really pushed, we had our opportunities, but just couldn’t get one in the back of the net.”

Ramona goalkeeper Jesse Bonilla made five saves in his 28th career shutout. Only six goalkeepers in CIF history entered the season with more shutouts, including 1980s Ramona goalies Oscar Bravo and Tim Nagle.

“That was some good news we can all share,” Jordan said of Bonilla earning a line in the CIF record book.

Ramona’s outside defenders were Ian Rode and David Soto. The Bulldogs’ middle defenders were Carson Charbonneau and Brandon Chavez.

“Our defense played great,” said Jordan.

Oceanside was ranked 13th in the county at the time of Ramona’s game against the Pirates.

“We definitely had our opportunities,” the coach said. “Just couldn’t get it done.”

Jordan was aware of Oceanside’s sideline attack potency and began the game with a formation of four defenders, five midfielders and one forward.

“Our defense played great again,” Jordan said. “Jesse had a pretty good night. That was a good team.”

Bonilla allowed the game’s lone goal midway in the second half but made nine saves.

The Bulldogs host Del Norte Friday in Valley League competition.

“Defensively we’re doing great, and we’ll try to keep figuring out how to score,” Jordan said.