Sockers Look to Avenge, Chiles to Make History
(December 8, 2016) Will fans witness Sockers history on Friday Dec 9th, 2016? San Diego Sockers star forward, Kraig Chiles has scored an incredible 296 throughout his Sockers career, trailing Sockers Legend Branko Segota (298) by only 2 goals. Segota played for the legendary teams on the 80’s that won 10 total championships from 1981-1991, which included Sockers legends like Juli Veee, Zoltan Toth, Brian Quinn, Steve Zungul and countless others.
Kraig Chiles is the modern equivalent of a Sockers legend. Just look at his resume. 296 goals (and counting!). 3 League MVP awards. 4 Championship Rings. This season, Chiles is searching for his “One for the Thumb” and to become the Sockers ALL-TIME Leading Goalscorer!
The Sockers have faced Turlock Express twice already, splitting the series 1-1, with each team winning at home. They first met in the Sockers Home Opener, with The Sockers producing a masterclass display to win 12-1. In the return leg, Turlock used their home field advantage to secure a 6-4 victory, their first victory over the Sockers ever. Sockers will be looking to avenge their first ever loss to Turlock Express and extend their lead at the top of the Pacific Division standings.
“In 8 years we never lost to Turlock, until this season. It shows you that every team in this league is good, and getting better. You’re only as good as your last game and we have to make sure we are on our best game this weekend.” – Head Coach Phil Salvagio
In addition to Chiles’ exploits, the Sockers lead the MASL in various other categories. Goalkeeper Chris Toth leads the league in Save Percentage (.808%), the “Haitian Sensation” Max Touloute leads the league in Short-Handed goals, and Forward Matt Clare is second in the league with 10 assists. Furthermore, the Sockers are second in the MASL in Goal Differential at +21, an incredible statistic through the first seven games of the season.
Turlock Express will be leaning heavily on the attacking output of Anibal Echevarria, who leads the team with 9 goals and 4 assists. Arturo Pulido is also a dangerous player for the Express. Christopher Welch should be the man between the posts after starting 5 of the 6 games.
Make sure to follow @SanDiegoSockers on social media for the latest new, images and updates about the team! Don’t forget to catch all MASL games on the new MASLtv YouTube channel.
Link to the MASL Youtube Live Stream: WATCH HERE