The Menlo boys’ soccer team opened the West Bay Athletic League season held off Crystal Springs Uplands with a 2-1 victory Wednesday on the road.

Getting an assist from its deep bench, the Knights (5-1-1) won their fourth in a row after coming back from a 1-0 deficit. The Gryphons came out strong, taking a lead in the 20th minute when their striker ran through on goal and finished into the side netting.

A few minutes before the half junior midfielder Marc Velten served a dangerous ball into the box off a free kick and junior winger Billy Hamilton was first to the loose ball and finished emphatically.

The game was open in the second half with both teams creating chances to take the lead. Menlo went in front in the 65th minute when Velten got a hold of a bouncing ball and hammered it into the top of the net from 35 yards.

The Knights had to withstand some pressure from Crystal in the closing minutes, but held on to its lead. Senior goalie Nolan Peterson had another standout game. 

“The boys showed a lot of heart and determination today battling a tough Crystal team in difficult weather conditions on a tough field,” Menlo coach Marc Kerrest said. “We have a deep team this year and it’s great to see two guys come off the bench and make the most of their opportunities, helping lift the team by contributing the goals.”

Menlo next takes on The King’s Academy at 2:45 pm at home Friday, Jan. 6

JV

The Menlo JV boys’ soccer team dominated in an 8-0 win over University. Aaron Morgan had a hat trick, Alex Morgan and Jackson Aldrich scored twice, and Bobby Shove added another goal.