The Menlo boys' soccer team improved to 3-1-1 after defeating a strong Los Altos team 3-0 thanks to a great team effort Wednesday.

Los Altos was dangerous early and hit the crossbar in the opening minutes on a header after a good cross from the left side. Menlo settled in after that, and though the Knights were unable to dominate possession as they had in previous games, their defense was well organized and Los Altos was unable to create dangerous opportunities.

Midway through the first half, senior Andrew Schmitt collected the ball after a long punt from senior goalie Timmy Costa and played fellow senior Ryan Karle in behind the defense. Karle initially looked for a teammate before firing a swerving shot with the outside of his foot past the Los Altos keeper for the opening goal.

Menlo continued to frustrate Los Altos with its staunch defending and scored a second goal 10 minutes later on a great individual effort by senior Max Parker. Parker received the ball in his own half from senior Beau Baldwin, dribbled down the line and ultimately ran past the Los Altos defense, calmly slotting the ball beyond the Los Altos keeper for a 2-0 halftime lead.

In the second half, the Eagles continued to dominate possession but were unable to find the opening they needed to get them back in the game, with the Knights looking lively on the counter everytime they got the ball. Senior defender Jack Redman and junior Justin Wang did an admirable job keeping the Los Altos attacks at bay.

On the few occasions when Los Altos found a way through Timmy Costa made some decisive saves, collecting his third clean sheet of the season.

Midway through the second half, Menlo took advantage of a Los Altos turnover and after Ryan Karle's initial shot was saved Andrew Schmitt was there to tap home his third goal in the last three games.

Menlo will next play Jan. 4 on the road at Woodside High School.

Scoring – Karle (Schmitt), Parker, Schmitt.