Sislian 2 Goals As Men's Soccer Finally Victorious In SCC North Game

Freshman forward Romio Sislian scored two goals to lead the Pasadena City College men's soccer team to its first South Coast Conference North Division victory in six attempts Friday, defeating host East Los Angeles College, 3-2. The Lancers improved to 5-9-4 overall and stand at 1-4-1 in division play.

Sislian gave the Lancers a 1-0 lead in the 18th minute when he surprised the ELAC defense by driving in the ball off a bounce near the top of the 18-yard box. Tied 1-1 with 16 minutes left, the Huskies committed a foul in the goalie box and it allowed Pablo Buenrostro to blast in a penalty kick for a 2-1 advantage. It was Buenrostro's team-leading seventh goal as the sophomore forward/midfielder continued a hot streak with a goal in his fourth straight game.

With nine minutes left, left-footed Anthony Jimenez took a free kick from the left sideline near the 30 yard-line. His perfect cross kick was headed in by Sislian, who redirected the pass inside the back post for a 3-1 lead. ELAC cut it to one goal with three minutes left on a goal by Edward Robles, but PCC would hold on for the win.

PCC goalie Andrew Espinoza made six saves. Lancers acting head coach Gerry Mora cited the strong play of Sislian, Buenrostro and midfielder Bryant Sanchez, who distributed the ball and moved the team upfield to create scoring chances. 

"We're playing very good soccer although it may not show in the wins/losses," Mora said. "This is a makeshift lineup from the one we started with this season and we've had players step up and take on starting spots. The offense is starting to really click (eight goals last four games) and we're doing a better job of creating scoring chances. We need to do a better job of finishing these plays, but anytime you put three goals up on the board, it's going to likely end up a win."

On Tuesday, Nov. 3, the Lancers will play their home finale against Mt. San Antonio College. Game time is 1 p.m. at Robinson Stadium.