Bakersfield, Calif., April 30, 2005 –Bakersfield Brigade hosted their final pre-season exhibition game Saturday, playing Atlas Reserves, a top Mexican League team.  Brigade had an impressive showing, when in the 85th minute Jason Ashurst scored on a header from a corner kicked by Johnny Carson preserving the 2-2 tie. 

 

The scoring started in the 12th minute by Atlas off a set piece just outside the 18 yard box.  Atlas mid-fielder Carlos Mendoza scored on the free kick inside the right post past a diving goalie Brandon Hearrnon. 

 

Brigade scoring started when UCLA grad Johnny Carson scored on a deflected cross by Javier Cervantes.  Carson finished the goal inside the six with an open net.  This was Carson’s third goal of the pre-season and the last game before heading to Modesto to play Cal-Gold May 7th.  “I played in this league while attending UCLA and this team can compete in this division” said Carson.  Gore agreed, “We have a very strong defense as long as we continue to clear and possess the ball we will compete with any team in the PDL (Premier Development League).”

 

Tied at half time the second half was more defense than scoring.  Atlas did finally score in the 85th minute.  A free kick was awarded and Atlas Mid-fielder Luis Francigero ran around the wall and scored the second goal.  The Atlas lead didn’t last long when less than two minutes later Jason Ashurst finished off the scoring with his header.

 

The game went into penalty kicks just to give the fans some excitement.  The official game actually ended in a tie.  “What a great way to end the evening” said Brigade General Manager Jimenez.  “We thought since this is an exhibition lets bring the fans down from the seats line them up along the field and go one-on-one with the goalies” said Jimenez, “hopefully the fans enjoyed the experience.”

“I was encouraged by the pro Brigade support we had” said Thorn.  “Anytime you play a team from Mexico you get a lot of supporters for the Mexican team.  The crowd was mostly supportive of our team.” said Thorn.

 

Notes:  Bakersfield Brigade U18 team played Atlas U-18 team winning 5-0.  Mike Esparza scored 2 goals and had one assist.  Brigade opens its first game at home May14th against Nevada Wonders.  First 500 in attendance get a Thunder Stick provided by El Californiano Newspaper.