West Sacramento CA (May 30, 2011)- – The 2010 defending National Premiere Soccer League Champions Sacramento Gold FC (3-2-3) defeated Sonoma County Sol (3-1-3)
2-0, on Sunday May 29, 2011 at River City High. Both goals where scored by Manolo Piña.

Last time both teams met neither side found the back of the net, as they had to settle for a nil-nil tie. In addition, Sacramento was 0-2 at home during the 2011 campaign. In a seemingly tough position, Gold FC needed the win.

Sonoma had the majority of the first half opportunities but failed to solidify their efforts.  As both teams fought for the lead, they went into the halftime break stuck at zero.

After modifying their line-up Sacramento’ attack grew more aggressive in the second half. The addition of forward Jason Jones and midfielder Fernando Cabadas pressured Sonoma’ defense. Jones, who was signed earlier in the week, paired up well in the attack  with Manolo Piña. Time after time they caught the Sonoma side disorganized but where not able to capitalize. Eventually, in the 65th minute of play Cabadas was able to penetrated Sonoma’ goal box. After drawing much of the attention he was able to find Piña for the opening goal of the match.

Not wanting to re-live the experience of their last encounter versus Hasental FC when Sacramento had a 2-0 first half lead only to be defeated 2-3; the Gold maintained the pressure via a collective defensive effort.

The high defensive pressure proved to be effective as Piña once again capitalized at the expense of a rattled Sonoma backline. Piña was able to settle a pass from Pedro Lupercio and converted in the 85 minute. With the score Piña gave the Sacramento side a two-goal lead while netting for the 6th time this season.

With a lot of time left on the clock Sacramento utilized their defensive posture to secure the match.  Led by veteran defender John Jones II, Gold FC was able to out muscle a physical Sonoma side. In the end, Sacramento Gold FC secured the three points and their first home win of the season.

After the game Jones II commented, “We needed to come out strong and physical. We couldn’t repeat our performance from last week.” He further added, “The addition of Jason (Jones) to the attack helped us out defensively. He is a big target up front that knows how to hold and distribute the ball….along with a solid team effort we came out
on top.”

Up next, Sacramento will host San Diego Boca FC (4-0-5) on Sunday June 5, 2011 at River City High School. The match is set to begin at 6pm.

For further team and league details contact (916) 842-8745 or visit www.npsl.info