Photo by John Kennedy

Jekyll and Hyde weekend for men

Last weekend, two different CSULB men's soccer clubs seemed to take the field. Saturday, the skilled 49ers beat UC San Diego 2-1, but a day later, a group of apparent impostors looked sluggish in a 3- 1 loss to Arizona State.

UCSD played hard Saturday, but it quickly became evident that CSULB is a more skillful team.

The first goal was scored by Joel Weinmiester, on a nice pass from Brian McMahon, 18 minutes into the game. Weinmiester was one-on- one with a San Diego fullback, turned with the ball and took a low shot.

UCSD could not score until the 72nd minute; the 49er defense was fighting to keep the ball out of the goal, but after the rubber projectile bounced from one player to the next, it eventually went in.

Five minutes later, CSULB's Martin Aeschlimann scored on an assist from Greg Olsky. Olsky punted the shot at the goal, the ball curved out and Aeschlimann followed up with a header that leaped into the net.

"I like how we are progressing each game," said Coach Cameron Beaulac. "Our ultimate goal is to get to regionals and qualify for nationals."

CSULB's offense used great crosses and had UCSD's goalie working, with many great low shots on goal.

Center-halfback Hector Espinosa had an exceptional game. He handled the ball well and had many smart plays, although he had to rest through most of the second half, due to an injury sustained during practice.

Romeo Escobar, center forward, also had a sensational game, getting great shots on goal and managing several breakaways.

Saturday's victory was a great contrast to CSULB's unexpected, though well-deserved loss to ASU Sunday.

The Sun Devils scored the first goal early into the game, on an indirect free kick from approximately 30 yards outside of the penalty box.

Even after ASU scored another goal, the 49er defense did not look awake.

ASU scored for the third time in the half when, from a pass to the side line, ASU's right forward took it in.

It looked like the 49ers would be blanked, until Brian Perry scored CSULB's goal in the second half.

Tony Loding filled in for CSULB's star goalkeeper, Rick Aguayo, who could not play because of his work schedule. Sunday's game was Loding's first action of the season.

Aeschlimann still managed to have a great game. He demonstrated a strong effort, and worked the ball well.

Espinosa and Escobar, who was also injured Saturday did not participate in Sunday's game.

CSULB's next opponent will be UC Riverside; the Highlanders come to Long Beach Saturday for a 10 a.m. contest at the campus soccer field.