LLANTEROS TAKE LEAD

AP-July 18, 2009
The league championship race was tied yesterday between the Llanteros and the Diablos. Today there is only one leader on the table thanks to a 4-0 Llanteros victory. With an undefeated regular season record, the Llanteros now lead the league in table points.

The game was a steamy affair played under hot conditions right after a moderate downpour. Early in the game it was obvious the heat and humidity were combining to wear out the players earlier. The weather was a huge advantage for a deep Llanteros team that could bring in fresh players almost at will.

It was a crucial game that the tire men needed to win in order to maintain a chance at the league championship and they delivered.

Keeper Efrain Wong had a much easier time this week turning in his second clean sheet after facing a lackluster Diablos offense. The Llanteros began with an aggressive attacking game and the opening score was late in the first half. Once the Llanteros put points on the board more followed one after another.

The Diablos never could rally and it quickly turned into a half-field game with the Llanteros hammering away and the Diablos desperately attempting to defend their goal.

This game moves the Llanteros ahead and they are in first place for the first time this season. Next week they will face a stiff Bangers and Mash team in a must-win game to retain the lead.