In the first game of the week the Lane Community College men's soccer team tied the 2021 semifinalist Rogue 2-2 thanks to a 90th minute corner kick goal by freshmen centerback Dan Latinovic. The match saw two lead changes in the 2nd half after Lane imposed their style in the 1st half.

 

"This match was a classic tale of two halves", said head coach Max Sampson, "We really felt we were going to dominate the game after we created so much danger in the first 20 or 30 minutes. The ball was rarely in our defensive third. Guys were getting good looks at goal, but couldnt put it in. Compliments to Rogue for responding after we took the lead from the pen (Yuki Yamaguchi penalty kick goal in the 55th minute) and making the game box to box in the second half."

 

Shortly after Yamaguchi put Lane ahead 1-0, Rogue would find a direct ball at the feet of their striker, NWAC offensive player of the week Vic Martinez, who had a great goal from a volley to tie the game in the 58th minute. They would take the lead after a Lane foul resulted in a penalty kick for Rogue in the 69th minute.

 

After a soft red was given to Sophomore defender Nick Hentzel in the 80th minute the Lane Titans were down 2-1 and playing 10 versus 11. The Titans threw full energy into scoring once more. Dan Latinovic would have the last word of the game in the final minute by scoring from a header.

 

"Dan is such a weapon in the air. The guy is like six foot six and can strike it cleanly. Sure enough the cross went back post and Dan did the rest. It was a thrilling game from a fan perspective but I hope we can assert ourselves in games early and depress our opponents."

 

In the second game of the week the Titans would control the defending region champs Chemeketa to win 4-0 in the first home game of the season. Goals by former South Eugene High School standout Sai Bliss-King in the 31st minute, Yuki Yamaguchi in the 37th, Carson Pindell 62nd, Dan Latinovic in the 71st would make for a balanced attack featuring players from forward, midfield, and defensive positions.

 

"4 nil is always fun, but it was the mental sharpness at halftime that made me proud. The boys kept saying 'we have a standard' and 'keep the standards' when the game was still open. This is a savvy and experienced squad and they took notice that they were the only south region team who didnt recieve votes in the rankings."

 

The Titans travel to Southwest Oregon on 9/14/22. Kick off is set for 1:30PM in Coos Bay, OR. The Titans will host Portland CC in 9/21/22 at 1:30PM in Eugene, OR. 

 

All area youth soccer players are encouraged to come watch the Lane Titans team. Full schedule is available at Lanetitans.com