CARSON — There were several teenagers on the field for Ventura County FC in Thursday’s opening round of the U.S. Open Cup. The first concern was how this predominantly young group would perform in the opening round.
The final result could have been much more comfortable. However, Coach Matt Taylor’s team, previously known as Galaxy II FC, won 2-1 over Irvine Zeta II FC to advance to the next round. This will be played on April 2-3. The pairings for next round will take place on Friday.
Thursday night’s match was played at the Dignity Health Sports Park Track and Field Stadium.
“I hope they take away positives,” Taylor said. “Created a lot of chances to score goals, didn’t give up much. … I think aside from the (first-half) PK, from inside the 18, I don’t think they had a shot. So, we managed the transition moments and managed to create a lot (of opportunities).”
Daniel Baumgartner’s penalty kick in the eighth-minute gave Irvine Zeta, the second Irvine Zeta team from NISA (National Independent Soccer Association), the first goal.
The lead didn’t last long. In the 11th minute, Tucker Lepley’s corner kick was headed toward the goal by an Irvine Zeta…
