The Acalanes Dons faced a demanding week of competition, taking on two strong programs in Las Lomas and Clayton Valley. Despite dropping both contests, Acalanes showed resilience and competitiveness throughout the week, highlighted by strong scoreless stretches and determined defensive efforts.
Tuesday, January 13 vs. Las Lomas High School (3–0 Loss)
Acalanes controlled the tempo through much of the first half against Las Lomas, dictating play and limiting quality chances. Luke Wilson provided strong play on the wing, while Maor Ziskind, playing at left back, shut down multiple attacking threats. The Dons carried a 0–0 score into halftime after a disciplined defensive effort.
Las Lomas broke through early in the second half, scoring in the 43rd minute when a free kick deflected through traffic. Two additional goals in quick succession followed, giving the Knights a 3–0 lead, which would hold until the final whistle. Despite the setback, Harrison Sheffler, Elliott Van Ornum, and Matthew Schwarz injected energy in the second half, helping generate counterattacking opportunities.
Thursday, January 15 – at Clayton Valley High School (4-0 Loss)
Acalanes faced a formidable challenge on the road against Clayton Valley, currently ranked #1 in NCS, top 25 in California, and top 100 nationally. The Dons fell into an early hole, surrendering two goals in the opening five minutes to the Eagles’ pace and pressure. Two additional goals late in the half resulted in a 4–0 halftime deficit, which would stand as the final score.
Acalanes regrouped at the break, realigning defensively and switching formations, and responded with a solid and resilient second-half effort. With Bryan Lurie sidelined by a first-half injury, Caleb Nguyen stepped into goal and delivered a notable performance highlighted by a diving save to keep Clayton Valley off the scoreboard in the second half. Andres Duke and the rest of the back line played tough, organized defense to shut down attacks, while counterattacks generated by Santi Vignoles and Zachary Birrell kept the Eagles honest and highlighted the Dons’ continued fight until the final whistle.
Next Up
Acalanes returns home on Saturday, January 17 at 4:00 PM to host College Park High School as league play continues.
