Sockers again toy with Empire; Massive wins by Seals, Legion

By Nick Pellegrino
Updated: March 11, 2023

2023 LOCAL PROS / G.L.A.S.S. SPORTS (Gulls, Legion, Aviators, Sockers & Seals)

From staff and wire reports

ONTARIO, Calif. – The San Diego Sockers own the Empire Strykers, whether it’s a tight checking battle or an offensive free-for-all.

On Thursday, Empire thought they finally would break through after tallying the final four goals of regulation time, but Sockers forward Christian “Golden” Gutierrez took a feed from Juan Manuel Rojo for an easy goal a mere 23 seconds into overtime to claim an 7-6 decision in Thursday’s (Mar. 9) Major Arena Soccer League contest.

In a match-up between the top two clubs in the MASL West Division, San Diego expanded a 5-3 lead with two quick goalsin the fourth period to take command. However, Empire began a comback with a goal at 4:04, , with Strykers forward Maicon De Abreu eventually scoring the equalizer with 1:12 to play.

Eight different players scored for the Sockers.

But just like to start the fourth period, the Sockers calmly made a couple of passes for the clinching goal, raising their record to anMASL-best 17-2.

Meanwhile, Empire (12-5) fell to third place, one full game behind CHihuahua (14-5).

The Sockers return to Pechanga Arena for a 3-game homestand when they can clinch the division title, starting Friday (Mar. 17) against Monterrey. A sdweep would also clinch the Supports Shield and home-field advantage throughout the Ron Newman Cup playoffs.