ALBION PROS DEFEAT PHOENIX RISING 3-1

The Albion PROS defeated Phoenix Rising 3-1 in their final preseason game on Feb. 25 at Mission Bay Stadium.

The fourth-tier PROS, competing in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), never faltered against the United Soccer League (USL) team.

In the fourth minute, PROS forward David Luquen announced his presence with a penalty kick against Rising goalkeeper Nolan Wirth and the PROS led 1-0.

Nine minutes in, PROS defender Luke Staats was issued a red card. Despite the loss of a starter, the PROS kept the Rising scoreless in the first half.

With one minute remaining in the half, the PROS were awarded a free kick and Luquen scored off a shot to the left side of the net, bringing the score to 2-0 at halftime.

The Rising opened the second half attacking more on goal. Six minutes into the second half they made three attempts, including one by forward Matt Hurlow.

Penalty kicks were awarded to both the PROS and Rising at minute 55 and minute 58 respectively.

Defender Kuba Waligorski scored off the penalty kick, bringing the PROS to 3-0.

Minutes later, Hurlow stepped up for a penalty kick. Goalkeeper Jean Antoine blocked Hurlow’s attempt on the right side of the goal. While still on the ground Antoine blocked a rebound, bringing the crowd to their feet.  Referees then called for a repeat of the penalty kick. Hurlow stepped aside and a trialist from the Rising nailed the kick. The Rising trailed the PROS 3-1.

Three substitutions by the Rising 63 minutes in, failed to recharge their offense. Antoine blocked another two attempts on goal, at minute 78 and minute 84.

After those two attempts, the Rising failed to make any more moves on goal and the PROS defeated the Rising with a final score of 3-1.

The PROS are undefeated in preseason and begin regular season play at home against the Oxnard Guerreros at 5 p.m. on March 11 at Mission Bay Stadium.