Aztecs Relieved by Neutral Site for UCLA Soccer

A first-round NCAA tournament opponent dressed in the maize and baby blue of UCLA is not the most pleasant sight in men’s college soccer. But the location makes it a little easier on the eyes of San Diego State Coach Chuck Clegg.

“I like the fact that it’s at El Camino College,” Clegg said. “It’s somewhat of a neutral site. I’d rather be playing there than on UCLA’s North Field.”

Thanks be to the soccer gods. Today at 2 p.m. in Los Angeles, the 18th-ranked Aztecs (14-4-3) meet No. 10 UCLA (16-3-1) for the second, but most important time this season, in the Far West Regional opener. Although SDSU defeated the then top-ranked Bruins (3-2) in overtime on Oct. 11 at the Aztec Bowl, the loser here gets a jump on preparing for next year.

“The only special significance of this game is that it’s an NCAA knockout and the loser goes home,” Clegg said.

Two years ago, the Aztecs, who have made the playoffs three consecutive years, were seeded last in the tournament, but defeated the Bruins in the quarterfinals and finished second to eventual champion Clemson. Last year, UCLA defeated SDSU, 2-1 in the first round. Postseason dances between the two have become somewhat of a tradition.

“We have to face them sooner or later,” Clegg said, “but you like new opponents. We would have liked to face them in the quarterfinals. I think both teams are capable of getting to that point, but once you know the reality of the situation, you accept it.”

What SDSU has accepted is the challenge of midfielders Chris Henderson, Cobi Jones and Ray Fernandez, whom Clegg pegged as UCLA’s strongest suit.

“The question is how our defense will play against their midfielders. We must keep them from getting into their attack quickly.”

For SDSU, scoring leaders and forwards Jeff Betts (10 goals, 12 assists) and Eric Wynalda (nine goals, six assists) need help getting into scoring position.

“The key for us is to get the forwards the proper service so we can get into the box,” Clegg said.

A broken left arm, against Cal State Northridge, has hindered Betts, but with U.S. National team member Marcelo Balboa--he missed eight games throughout the season--back, the Aztecs are at full strength.