MSoc: Warriors get defensive in win over Bethesda

A first-half penalty kick by midfielder Sean Siemens and a second-half strike by midfielder Jonathan Yeeles proved to be enough firepower for Westmont men’s soccer to smother the Flames of Bethesda 2-1 on Saturday at Thorrington Field.

Although the score itself didn’t reflect it, the Warriors blanketed the Flames defensively. Westmont allowed only four shots on-goal, and surrendered just two corners. Bethesda’s lone goal was an own goal.

“I thought we were stingy defensively, which was really the hope today,” Westmont coach Dave Wolf said. “We wanted to be a bit tighter on the defensive side of the ball. Obviously, the (own) goal was a bit unlucky, but it was off of a great effort.”

Offensively, Westmont finished with 18 shots, with three each derived from Yeeles, Brandon Talsma, and Matthew Lariviere. Siemens, making his season debut after a  back injury, Nana Ayken, Rick McCarthy, and Tanner Wolf each added two as well.

Wolf was especially impressed by the play of Yeeles.  “He is trying to make something happen every time he gets on the ball.”

Yeeles has totaled two goals and two assists through three games this season.