By Vincent Rupena – Spear Editor | SJSU sophomore defender Ruben Flores-Thomas looking to throw in the ball during Nov. 3 match against the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (Photo by Iber Moreno – Spear Reporter)
Many people love an underdog story but sometimes it ends with heartbreak.
SJSU men’s soccer suffered a 3-0 defeat against Seattle University in the Western Athletic Conference Championship.
The Spartans entered the WAC Tournament as the fifth ranked team after going 3-3-3 in conference play during the regular season. They took down No. 1 ranked San Diego State 3-2 to advance to the championship match.
A major reason for SJSU’s tournament run was performances from junior midfielder and WAC offensive player of the year, Angel Iniguez. He scored three of the four Spartan goals during the WAC tournament.
Iniguez was unable to continue his production in the championship match. In 90 minutes, he did not record any shots or shots on goal.
Despite SJSU’s struggles, junior goalkeeper Ronin Axelson managed to perform well. Axelson allowed only three of Seattle’s 18 shots past him, recording a career high six saves.
Axelson received his first start when the Spartans last faced off against the Redhawks on Oct. 26 with less than a month remaining in the season. Tallying 17 saves in six starts.
It is unknown if Axelson will be the starting goalkeeper for SJSU next season but his 2024 campaign makes a strong case.
Continuity could be crucial for the team going forward.
“Really young team and I think that little bit of inexperience and immaturity was tough tonight,” Spartans head coach Simon Tobin said. “The future looks very bright for such a young group.”
Some positive and uplifting words from SJSU’s coach. If the team can continue to develop, its best may lie ahead.
Friday’s starting lineup for the Spartans consisted of two freshmen, two sophomores, five juniors, one senior and one graduate student. They could enter next season with 9 returning starters.
