11 MAY 2008 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes lost their first home game in over a year tonight, falling by 3 goals to 1 to the visiting San Jose Frogs, a result which virtually ends their US Open Cup qualification chances for another year. The Quakes had not previously lost a home game since the 1-0 defeat to the Southern California Seahorses on the final day of the 2006 season, and the 1-3 scoreline is also the largest margin of defeat suffered by the Quakes since they lost 5-0 to Fresno Fuego back in July of 2006.

Head Coach Juan Florez was forced to make a number of changes to his lineup after the tie with Ventura last night: Jeff Quijano, Jonny Bravo and Stephen Carlson came into the starting eleven to replace Chad Borak (ankle), Willie Sims (hamstring), and the suspended Taylor Canel, although Garrett Maloney made a welcome return to the substitute’s bench following his head injury in the season opener.

10 MAY 2008 - On a chilly night in Bulldog Stadium at Ventura’s Buena High School, the San Fernando Valley Quakes squandered a 2-goal lead against Ventura County Fusion and returned home from the first part of their Mother’s Day Weekend double-header with a single point, when three had been within their reach.

The Quakes lined up with the backbone of the team which comprehensively out-performed the Southern California Seahorses last weekend: Kevin Guppy in goal; Chad Borak, Robert Pate, Jose Esquivel and returning prodigal son Matt Tracy across the back; Taylor Canel, Matt Davis in the center of midfield, Devin Deldo and Sung-Hyun Kim down the wings, and Ryan Shaw up front. The lone new face was that of veteran Guatemalan striker Willie Sims, the older brother of Quakes stalwart Oscar Sims, who was making his SFV debut, and his first competitive start since being released by MLS giants New England Revolution at the beginning of the year.

7 MAY 2008 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes will play two back-to-back games this weekend as they seek to continue their excellent start to the 2008 USL Premier Development season.

The Quakes beat the Southern California Seahorses 3-1 last weekend, with goals from Devin Deldo, Aaron Hunter and Jonny Bravo, in what was their inaugural game at their new home, Calabasas High School in Calabasas. The victory left them in second place behind the San Francisco Seals in the Southwest division standings after the first full round of games.

Mat Davis was named to the PDL Team of the Week by the United Soccer League for his performance in the game against the Seahorses. Mat achieved an assist in the game, setting up Aaron Hunter’s goal from a corner kick.

On Saturday, the Quakes will make the short trip up the Pacific coast to Ventura, where they will take on second-season franchise Ventura County Fusion. Fusion, coached by Englishman Graham Smith, finished fourth in the division last year. The Quakes’ two games against them last year were a 0-2 loss and a 0-0 tie.

Then, on Sunday, the Quakes will host the San Jose Frogs, in what will be that team’s first ever visit to the San Fernando Valley. The Frogs joined the PDL from the rival National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) last year, and ultimately finished third in the division. The Quakes and the Frogs have only played each other once in their history – a 2-1 Quakes victory last summer, off the back of two goals by Sung Kim.

7 MAY 2008 - Mat Davis, the Quakes’ erstwhile captain, inspirational central midfielder, and director of football, has been named to the PDL Team of the Week for the third week of the PDL season, it was announced today.

Quakes defender Aaron Hunter scored the second goal of a 3-1 win over the Southern California Seahorses off a corner taken by Mat, giving him his first assist of the season.

Congratulations Mat! Click here to see the complete team list.

4 MAY 2008 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes got their 2008 PDL season off to the best possible start with a comprehensive 3-1 victory over the visiting Southern California Seahorses. The game was the first match at the Quakes’ new home, Keith Ritchie Field at Calabasas High School in Calabasas.

In front of a 300 strong crowd, and with the picturesque foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains as a backdrop, the Quakes took to the field with a new-look lineup, with four new players making their debut: defenders Garrett Maloney, Danny Ortiz and Stephen Carlson, and striker Devin Deldo. Also returning was former Quakes player Taylor Canel, back in the fold after spending last year with Los Angeles Galaxy’s reserves. However, the core of the squad which made the 2007 playoffs remained, including goalkeeper Kevin Guppy, towering defender Robert Pate, midfield playmaker Mat Davis, creative wide men Chad Borak and Sung-Hyun Kim, and striker Ryan Shaw.

2 MAY 2008 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes welcome the visiting Southern California Seahorses from La Mirada to Keith Ritchie Field at Calabasas High School Sunday for the opening game of their 2008 USL Premier Development League campaign.

The Quakes are seeking to improve on their highly satisfying 2007 season, when they qualified for the post-season playoffs for the first time off the back of a 10-game unbeaten streak at the end of the season, and a year-long undefeated home record. Despite the recent injury worries, head coach Juan Florez has an exciting, talented roster of players from which to draw, and will be looking to the likes of all-time leading scorer Ryan Shaw, who has netted 18 goals in 29 starts for the Quakes since making his debut in 2006, and goalkeeper Kevin Guppy, the 2007 PDL All-Western Conference Goalkeeper of the Year, to continue their excellent form from last year’s campaign.

The Quakes have a checkered history against the Seahorses, but have had the upper hand in recent matchups, winning both their games last year: the Quakes won 4-3 away in La Mirada with goals from Ryan Shaw, Oscar Sims and Mat Davis, and won 3-1 at home with goals from Sung Kim, Ryan Shaw and Daniel Paladini.

So come along and support your 2008 San Fernando Valley Quakes! Kickoff is 5:00pm. Adult tickets are $8; kids tickets $6, or free with a Real SoCal/WVSL jersey.

St. Mary’s midfielder Dylan Leslie and UCLA defender Sean Alvarado will miss the entire 2008 Quakes season - and the majority of the 2008 college soccer season - after both players suffered devastating knee injuries during the past week.

In separate training ground incidents, Alvarado injured his anterior cruciate ligament, while Leslie injured both his anterior cruciate ligament and his medial collateral ligament. Both players will require reconstructive surgery on their knees, and will be on the sidelines for some time.

Everyone at the Quakes wish both Dylan and Sean all the best with their recoveries, and hope to see them back in the blue and black next season.

There is some good news to report, with the signings of both Taylor Canel (CSUN) and Maxwell Griffin (UCLA) to the Quakes roster for 2008. Canel and Griffin both played for the Quakes in our 2006 debut season, with Griffin registering 2 goals; Canel was drafted by Los Angeles Galaxy in the 2007 MLS SuperDraft and spent last season playing with the Galaxy’s reserves. Welcome back Taylor and Max!

Former San Fernando Valley Quakes and CSUN star and current Los Angeles Galaxy defender Sean Franklin is ruffling some feathers down at the Home Depot Center.

Franklin has been in the starting eleven for the Galaxy’s last three games, and has been showing his versatility by playing right-back, center-back, left-back and left-wing, getting a starting nod ahead of Portuguese World Cup veteran Abel Xavier, and terrorizing the Houston Dynamo defence with a hugely impressive performance against the reigning MLS Cup champions a few weeks ago. In fact, Sean has been so consistent that current Galaxy head coach and former FIFA World Player of the Year Ruud Gullit has named him as the team’s current best player.

In an article posted on Galaxy’s official website, Gullit said "I think our best player the last couple of weeks is Sean Franklin. I think again he played an excellent game. If you see how he goes into midfield, gives long balls to Beckham all the time, I think he’s made huge progress. That makes me happy."

It’s a wonderful achievement for Sean, and continues to underline the way PDL teams like the Quakes are the backbone of the American soccer system, in preparing oustanding college athletes like Sean, Dan Paladini and Mike Zaher for careers in the professional ranks.

To read the full article, click here.

Friday, April 25 2008 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes, who are preparing to enter their third season of competition, have announced the roster for their upcoming 2008 USL Premier Development League season.

Despite losing midfielder Sean Franklin to Los Angeles Galaxy, midfielder Daniel Paladini to CD Chivas USA and defender Mike Zaher to DC United (via Toronto FC) in the 2008 Major League Soccer SuperDraft, head coach Juan Florez has retained the majority of the successful 2007 Quakes squad which qualified for the post-season playoffs for the first time last year.

All-time leading scorer Ryan Shaw (ex-UC Davis) returns for his third campaign, having netted 18 goals in 29 starts for the Quakes since making his debut in 2006. Also returning for a third year is goalkeeper Kevin Guppy (Cal State Northridge), the 2007 All-Western Conference Goalkeeper of the Year. Completing the triumvirate of ever-present Quakes players is former indoor pro, midfielder, captain and director of football Mat Davis, who will celebrate his 34th birthday on May 16, and will seek to continue to lead the team with his performances on the field, and his experience off it.

Other returnees from the 2007 roster include UCLA defender Sean Alvarado, CSUN defender Chad Borak, former South Korean U-15 international and CSUN left winger Sung-Hyun Kim, skilful St Mary’s midfielder Dylan Leslie, U.S. U-20 and UCLA midfielder Kyle Nakazawa, experienced goalkeeper Sean O’Connor, and towering CSUN central defender Robert Pate, all of whom contributed significantly to the ’07 Quakes playoff run.

Former San Fernando Valley Quakes striker Bryan Jordan has signed formally with Los Angeles Galaxy after impressing head coach Ruud Gullit during his pre-season trial period.

A product of the University of Oregon, Jordan played 7 games for the Quakes during their inaugural PDL season in 2006 before being picked up by Portland Timbers of the USL First Division prior to their 2007 campaign. Jordan scored five goals in 26 appearances for the Timbers last year, helping them to the semi-finals of the USL1 playoffs.

Jordan had been on trial with the Galaxy for several months prior to being offered a contract; he played in the Pan-Pacific Championship in Hawaii, featured on the Asian tour in China and Hong Kong, and turned out in the exhibition match against the Quakes in last weekend’s Galaxy FanFest 2008.

Jordan joins former team-mate Sean Franklin as a member of the 2008 Galaxy squad, and becomes the latest Quakes product to join the professional ranks in Major League Soccer.

As if one pro signing in a week wasn't enough, we are also delighted to announce that Daniel Paladini has been signed by Major League Soccer's CD Chivas USA.

Paladini played in 14 games for the Quakes last season, scoring three goals, and helping guide the team to their first ever PDL playoff campaign. Paladini was previously signed to Los Angeles Galaxy’s developmental roster in May 2006, having been the club’s last selection of the second round (24th overall) of the 2006 MLS Supplemental Draft. He played for both Galaxy and CD Chivas USA’s reserves during the 2006 season, but never appeared for either first team, and was waived by the Galaxy at the end of the season.

Paladini was twice named an all-state selection as a high schooler at St. Francis High School in 2000 and 2001, and played club soccer for Real SoCal for many years. At Cal State Northridge he was a first team All-Big West selection in 2004 and 2005, and scored seven goals and added four assists in 2005 en route to Big West Conference midfielder of the year honors.

Paladini signed his contract with Chivas on March 12, and joins fellow new signings Keith Savage, Justin Braun and Lance Parker on the roster for the upcoming MLS season.

Congratulations Dan - everyone at the Quakes wishes you well in your new career!

22 MARCH 2008 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes, in final preparations for the upcoming 2008 USL Premier Development League season, were beaten 3-1 by a full-strength Los Angeles Galaxy in an "exhibition open practice" game in front of 4,000 Galaxy fans at the Home Depot Center. The game was the centerpiece of Galaxy’s FanFest 2008, the traditional season-opening club celebration prior to the upcoming Major League Soccer season.

The Quakes, under head coach Juan Flores, lined up with the majority of the sqaud which reached the 2007 PDL Playoffs, including goalkeeper Kevin Guppy, defenders Robert Pate, Sean Alvarado and Josh Leon, midfielders, Sung Kim, Dylan Leslie and Oscar Sims, inspirational captain Mat Davis, striker Ryan Shaw, and debutant Rafa Garcia, a freshman at Cal State Northridge who will likely be making his league debut for the Quakes in the next few weeks.

By contrast, Galaxy coach Ruud Gullit started with a full complement stars from their first team roster, including David Beckham, Landon Donovan, Carlos Ruiz, Abel Xavier, Chris Klein, ’keeper Steve Cronin and Greg Vanney, plus trialists and new draftees Michael Gavin, Brandon McDonald, Ely Allen and Alvaro Pires.

Continue for exclusive photos from the game!

The San Fernando Valley Quakes will face off against Major League Soccer superstars Los Angeles Galaxy at the Home Depot Center in Carson at 10:30am on Saturday, March 22nd 2008 as part of the annual Los Angeles Galaxy FanFest 2008 celebrations.

The Quakes will line up against a star-studded Galaxy squad expected to feature international stars such as David Beckham, Landon Donovan, Carlos Ruiz and Abel Xavier, as well as former Quakes star and recent draftee Sean Franklin, in an "open" exhibiton game which will form the main event of the day.

Click here for further details on FanFest 2008: http://web.mlsnet.com/t106/fans/fan_fest/.

8 FEBRUARY 2008 - After two excellent years in Granada Hills, the San Fernando Valley Quakes will be playing all their 2008 games in Calabasas.

Keith Ritchie Stadium, on the grounds of Calabasas High School in Calabasas, CA, will be the new home for the Quakes, beginning with the first home match of the season against the Southern California Seahorses on Sunday, May 4th.

Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, and just minutes from the 101 freeway, the city of Calabasas straddles the border between the San Fernando Valley and the Conejo Valley, 30 miles west of downtown Los Angeles.

Keith Ritchie Stadium boasts a brand new FieldTurf playing surface, installed following a $500,000 stadium upgrade in September 2007, as well as space for over 1,000 spectators.

Everyone at the San Fernando Valley Quakes would like to thank the administrators and staff of Granada Hills Charter High School, and especially those responsible for John Elway Stadium, for their support to the Quakes organization over the last two seasons!

See the link for photos of our new home!

24 JANUARY 2008 - USL headquarters in Tampa have released the final schedule for the 2008 PDL season. The Quakes will begin their campain for the title on Sunday May 4th with a home game against the Southern California Seahorses, followed by a short trip to Ventura to take on the Fusion on Saturday May 10th.

Take a look at the full schedule here - http://www.uslsoccer.com/docs/home/PDL2008Schedule.pdf

18 JANUARY 2008 - San Fernando Valley Quakes and CSUN star Sean Franklin has been drafted by Los Angeles Galaxy in the 2008 MLS Superdraft, which was held in Baltimore today.

Franklin, who helped lead the Quakes to the 2007 PDL playoffs, was the 4th overall pick. As a wide right-sided midfielder, Sean will have the opportunity to link up with both David Beckham and Landon Donovan at the heart of Galaxy’s formation.

In the picture on the right Franklin is shown shaking hands with Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber.

UCLA defender and Quakes veteran Mike Zaher was drafted by Toronto FC 30th overall, and will be heading to Canada to team up with Les Rouges as they embark on their second MLS season. Also, UCSB striker Eric Avila, a Generation Adidas Program participant who turned out for the Quakes in 2006 and played for Ventura County Fusion in the PDL last season, was drafted 19th overall by FC Dallas.

The surprise Number 1 draft pick was UCLA defender Chance Myers, who also played for Ventura last season, and will be heading to the Kansas City Wizards for the 2008 MLS Season.

The PDL Southwest Conference is actually proving to be a hotbed of young soccer talent; in addition to Franklin, Zaher, Avila and Myers, UCLA and Los Angeles Storm defender Tony Beltran was drafted third overall by Real Salt Lake, and UCSB defender and one-time Quakes prospect Andy Iro was drafted sixth overall by Columbus Crew.

Congratulations Sean and Mike!

Click here for more details on the 2008 MLS Superdraft

31 DECEMBER 2007 - San Fernando Valley Quakes’ star wing-back Sean Franklin has been called up to the US Men’s National U-23 squad by head coach Peter Nowak, and will take part in the 2-week training camp in Bradenton, FL, in March as part of the preparations for CONCACAF qualifying for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China.

The camp is also part of the team’s preparations for the final round of the 2008 CONCACAF Men’s Under-23 Championship, to be held from March 11-23, 2008, in which Franklin is also likely to take part. The United States will play their three games of the group stage against Cuba on March 11, Panama on March 13 and Honduras on March 15. All of these games will take place in in Tampa, FL.

Also part of the squad are former Quakes players Kamani Hill, now with VfL Wolfsburg in Germany, and Eric Avila of UC Santa Barbara, who made three appearences for the Quakes in 2006 and now plays for PDL rivals Ventura County Fusion.

For further details, see this link.

The final details and divisional alignments for the 2008 USL Premier Development League season have been announced by USL HQ in Tampa.

The PDL will consist of 67 teams in 2008, playing in four conferences, split into 10 divisions. There will be new divisions in the Central and Eastern Conferences, and new expansion franchises in Kalamazoo MI (Kalamazoo Outrage), Houston TX (Houston Leones), Panama City FL (Panama City Pirates), northern New Jersey (New Jersey Rangers), Austin TX (Austin Stampede) and Vancouver, British Columbia (Vancouver Whitecaps Residency). Also, the New Hampshire Phantoms and Cincinnati Kings professional franchises have taken voluntary relegation from the USL Second Division and will play in the PDL in 2008. An additional expansion team in Newark, NJ, is still to be officially announced.

In the Southwest Division, the Quakes will face the same nine teams as last year: Bakersfield Brigade, Fresno Fuego, Lancaster Rattlers, Los Angeles Storm, Orange County Blue Star, San Francisco Seals, San Jose Frogs, Southern California Seahorses, and Ventura County Fusion; stay tuned for more details on the 16-game schedule in upcoming weeks.

The top two teams in each division will advance to the conference championship tournament. The divisional champions will face the second place team from the opposite division in the conference semi final; the winner of the conference championship advances to the PDL national semi finals. If the Quakes advance to the playoffs, they will again face one of the teams from the Northwest Division, which this year comprises Abbotsford Mariners (from Abbotsford, British Columbia), BYU Cougars (from Provo, Utah), Cascade Surge (from Salem, Oregon), Ogden Outlaws (from Ogden, Utah), Spokane Spiders (from Spokane, Washington), Tacoma Tide (from Tacoma, Washington), Vancouver Whitecaps Residency (from Vancouver, British Columbia), and Yakima Reds (from Yakima, Washington).

http://pdl.uslsoccer.com/home/216806.html

12 DECEMBER 2007 - Major League Soccer has announced the initial list of 54 college seniors from 33 Division I schools who have been invited to participate in the 2008 Adidas MLS Player Combine. The list includes Quakes defenders Sean Franklin from CSUN and Mike Zaher from UCLA.

The annual player combine will be held at Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, FL, on January 11-15, 2008. The coaching and management staffs of all 14 MLS teams will be in attendance to scout talent prior to the 2008 MLS SuperDraft, which takes place in Baltimore three days after the concusion of the combine on January 18th. The initial list of players for the combine was determined by a select panel of Division I college coaches representing all conferences who nominated and voted for players in conjunction with MLS coaches.

Congratulations and good luck to Sean and Mike!

click here for further details.

9 DECEMBER 2007 - Former San Fernando Valley Quakes head coach Ali Khosroshahin has taken the USC Trojans women’s soccer team to their first ever NCAA Division I title, beating Florida State University 2-0 in the championship game in College Station, Texas on December 9th.

Khosroshahin was the Quakes head coach during their first season in the PDL in 2006, narrowly missing out on reaching the playoffs in the inaugural season; he left to become USC’s first ever soccer coach in January of this year.

http://usctrojans.cstv.com/sports/w-soccer/recaps/120907aaa.html

24 NOVEMBER 2007 - San Fernando Valley Quakes veterans Sean Franklin, Kevin Guppy, Sunghyun Kim, Mike Zaher, Kyle Nakazawa, Alex Christensen and Dylan Leslie have each claimed honors in their respective NCAA soccer conferences, it was announced Tuesday.

Franklin, despite playing just seven games in his senior campaign, made it three-straight first-team honors. Guppy and Kim have also been honored before. Franklin missed most of the year after breaking his arm in the PDL playoffs against BYU, but came back strong for his final seven contests. He scored the second goal of his career in a 3-2 loss to UC Santa Barbara and wore the captain’s armband all season. Guppy bombarded the Northridge record books in 2007 en route to second-team honors. He moved into first place all-time in career shutouts and career wins and moved into second with 60 matches in goal and 207 career saves, reached a career-high with 76 saves, good for CSUN’s tenth-best total all-time. Sunghyun Kim also earned his second all-conference honor, picking up honorable mention accolades. Kim co-led Northridge with four goals, three assists, and 11 points.

Meanwhile, Mike Zaher of UCLA received his second consecutive first-team All-Pac-10 honor. The Bruins’ co-captain has recorded three goals and three assists and has played and started in every game this season. His UCLA teammate Kyle Nakazawa, who is the Pac-10 leader in assists with seven, is second on the team with 11 points, and was an honorable mention selection as a freshman a year ago, was named to the second team. Oregon State’s Alex Christensen, who started in all but one game for the Beavers this season, earned his third career honorable mention selection after playing a key role on defense while recording two goals on the season.

Meanwhile, St. Mary’s College sophomore midfielder Dylan Leslie garnered First Team All-WCC honors after playing in all 18 games this season with 17 as a starter. Leslie finished his second season with the Gaels with four points on two goals and two assists. Following his freshman season, Leslie was a Second Team All-WCC and a WCC All-Freshmen Team selection in 2006.

Quakes’ and UCLA veteran defender Mike Zaher has been nominated for the 2007 Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award in Soccer, presented each year to the outstanding senior NCAA Division I Student Athlete of the Year. The acronym "CLASS" stands for Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School.

The Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award celebrates the loyalty of seniors that honor their four-year commitment to their university. The Senior CLASS Award recognizes these student athletes for great achievement during competition and in the classroom while staying in school. Award winners are determined by a selection process that includes, NCAA Division I college coaches in each respective sport, national media, sponsors and fans. The voting process determines the winner in addition to a Senior CLASS All-America Team.

Congratulations to Mike for this superb honor. Click here for further details.

23 AUGUST 2007 - Former San Fernando Valley Quakes and UCLA striker Kamani Hill, currently in his second season with VfL Wolfsburg in the German Bundesliga, earned his second cap for the senior United Stated Men’s National Team in yesterday’s 1-0 friendly defeat to Sweden.

Hill, who played 10 games and scored 1 goal for the Quakes in 2006, came on as a 64th minute substitute for Landon Donovan to partner fellow prospect Charlie Davies in attack, in front of 20,648 fans at the Ullevi Stadium, home of Swedish Allsvenskan team IFK Gothenburg. Although Hill was mentioned by many commentators for being one of the best players in the game, he was unable to force an equalizing goal. Sweden’s winner was scored by Olympique Lyonnais midfielder Kim Källström in the 56th minute.

11 AUGUST 2007 - PDL Southern Conference Mid-South Division side Laredo Heat won their first ever PDL National Championship tonight, beating defending champions Michigan Bucks 4-3 on penalties after a 0-0 tie in regulation time.

17-year-old striker Felix Garcia struck the winning penalty past Bucks keeper Steven Clark to give the Texans victory in a penalty shootout which was marred by an injury to Michigan striker Kenny Uziogwe who, after taking a PK which was saved by Laredo keeper Ryan Cooper, immediately collapsed in agony with cramp; however, when the referee called the penalty back due to Cooper being off his line, Uziogwe was unable to continue, despite recieving treatment for 10 minutes on the field, resulting in the unprecedented sight of a player being substituted due to injury during a penalty shoot-out!

Laredo, who beat Western Conference champions Fresno Fuego in the national semi final, drew over 6,000 fans to their home stadium, the Student Activity Center in downtown Laredo, Texas.

6 AUGUST 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes’s coach, Juan Florez, is one of the three nominees in line for the 2007 PDL Coach of the Year award, the USL announced today.

Colombian-born Florez, in his first year at Granada Hills, led the Quakes to the playoffs for the first time in the team’s short history, off the back of a 10-game undefeated streak in the last weeks of the regular season.

Prior to joining the Quakes, Juan was the assistant trainer for CSUN’s men’s varsity team in 1992, assistant coach for CSUN’s men’s varsity team from 2000-06, assistant coach for CSUN’s women’s varsity team in 2005, and coached with a number of notable youth soccer organizations in the Los Angeles area, including California Stars (1989-90), West Valley Pride (1990-91), VUSC (1992-93), Los Angeles Force (1992-94), Fury SC (1995-96), North Valley SC (1998-2000) and the Rovers Soccer Club (2006-07). Juan has also been involved with AYSO Youth Soccer for many years, and has acted as the Director of Coaches for the West Valley Soccer League since 2000. Juan also has prior USL experience, having been in charge of the now-defunct San Fernando Valley Golden Eagles from 1996-98.

The other nominees are Tony Glavin, head coach of the St Louis Lions, and Jon Hall, head coach of the Hampton Roads Piranhas. The recipient of the Coach of the Year award will be announced by the United Soccer Leagues on Thursday, August 9.

http://pdl.uslsoccer.com/home/196912.html

30 JULY 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes’ standout right winger Sean Franklin has been named to the PDL All-League Team, announced by the officers of the United Soccer Leagues today. Sean, a former US youth international, led the club to the postseason, playing in all 16 games and registering two goals and seven assists, which was tied for fourth in the league. Congratulations Sean - hopefully this honor will soften the blow of the broken arm he suffered in the PDL Western Conference Semi-Final against BYU Cougars at the weekend!

http://www.uslsoccer.com/home/195824.html

In addition, both Franklin and Quakes’ keeper Kevin Guppy were named in the All-Western Conference Teams, with Guppy being named as All-Western Conference Goalkeeper of the Year by the USL. Kevin’s 2007 record stands at 13 games, 1165 minutes played, 15 goals conceded, and a 1.158 GAA average for the year.

http://pdl.uslsoccer.com/recentnews/195445.html

The recipients of the Defender of the Year and U19 Player of the Year awards will be announced Wednesday, August 8 and the Coach of the Year and Most Valuable Player will be unveiled Friday, August 10. The Finalists for the four honors will be announced Friday, August 3.

28 JULY 2007 - The San Fernando Quakes found themselves on the wrong end of a 2-0 scoreline at the hands of Northwest Division champions BYU Cougars from Provo, Utah, ending their hopes of winning the PDL Western Conference title.

Chukchansi Park in downtown Fresno, the home of Southwest Division champions Fresno Fuego, was the venue for the Quakes first playoff campaign. A baseball stadium with a soccer pitch in the outfield, Chukchansi was unconventional as far as locations are concerned, but despite having to cope an Astroturf semi-circle covering the infield and corner flags in the dirt, the Quakes approached their first ever playoff campaign brimming with confidence, coming off the back of a 10-game unbeaten streak and with a 100% undefeated home record at Granada Hills.

Unfortunately, the bad luck bug bit before the game even started. Promising striker Ben Corrodi, who was poised to finally make his Quakes debut after a season-long layoff through injury, suffered a back spasm in the warm-up and was unable to take his place in the squad. Similarly, midfielder Daniel Paladini looked likely to be forced out of the starting eleven due to a knee injury, but fortunately was able to make the bench, having been given the all-clear from doctors the day before.

It has now been confirmed the San Fernando Valley Quakes’ Western Conference playoff semi-final against BYU Cougars will take place as follows:

- Friday, 27th July 2007
- Chukchansi Park, 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA 93721
- kickoff at 4:30pm

If the Quakes beat BYU, they will face either Fresno Fuego or Tacoma Tide in the Conference Final the following day - Saturday, 28th July 2007 - again at Chukchansi Park. The kickoff time for that game is 7:30pm.

The San Fernando Valley Quakes will take on Northwest Division champions BYU Cougars, from Provo in Utah, in the semi-final of the Western Conference playoffs this coming weekend. It was confirmed that the game will take place at Chukchansi Park in Fresno, following Fresno's 3-1 victory over the San Francisco Seals this afternoon. Fresno's victory ensured they captured the Southwest divisional title for the second time (they first win it in their debut year in 2003), and also confirmed that they would be the playoff hosts for 2007.

Fresno themselves will take on Northwest Division runners-up Tacoma Tide in the other semi-final; if the Quakes overcome BYU, they will play the winner of that game for the Conference title on Sunday.

More information regarding the exact details of the playoff dates and times will be posted as soon as they are available.

20 JULY 2007 - On a chilly evening in Ventura County tonight, a little bit of history was made. Ventura County Fusion and Los Angeles Storm played to a goalless 0-0 draw, and when the final whistle blew Ventura's inability to put the ball past the Storm meant that the San Fernando Valley Quakes had qualified for the PDL playoffs for the first time in the franchise's two-year history, after missing out by just a single point last year.

To be fair, Fusion threw absolutely everything at the Storm: for virtually the entire 90 minutes they pummelled the visitors defense with cross after cross, pass after pass, shot after shot. The Quakes certainly owe something to Storm goalkeeper Patrick Lane, who pulled off a string of magnificent second-half saves to keep the game goalless, including one where he fingertipped a wicked 35-yard shot over the bar. Fusion hit the post, hit the crossbar, saw a free kick sail over by inches, and even had a goal disallowed in the last minute of play after the referee called a foul for a push on the goalkeeper. But, in the end, the Gods were smiling on Granada Hills.

The result means that the Quakes will travel to the playoffs for the first time, where they will face Northwest qualifiers Tacoma Tide and BYU Cougars. The fourth and final playoff spot will be decided next week, and will go to either Fresno, Ventura or San Jose, depending on the results of the Fresno-San Francisco game tomorrow, and the San Jose-San Francisco game on Sunday.

Depending on who qualifies, the playoffs will take place next weekend in either Fresno or Ventura; details of game times and opponents will be posted here as soon as they are available.

15 JULY 2007 - Fresno Fuego beat Bakersfield Brigade 4-2 on Saturday, and Ventura County Fusion tied 3-3 with Southern California Seahorses today, meaning that the race for the two spots in the Southwest Division playoffs will come down to the final games of the regular season.

Fresno moved onto 29 points, three behind the Quakes, with a comfortable win over Bakersfield, with goals from Brazilians Pablo Campos and Fabricio Codeceira; likewise, Ventura join Fresno on 29 points after a pulsating six-goal thriller which saw the Seahorses lead 2-1, Ventura turn it around to lead 3-2, only for them to concede an injury-time equalizer. So what does this mean for the Quakes playoff race? Here's the breakdown:

- Ventura play at home against Los Angeles on Friday. If Ventura tie, or lose, the Quakes will make the playoffs
- Fresno play away in San Francisco on Saturday. If Fresno tie, or lose, the Quakes will make the playoffs
- if both teams win, then all three of us will end the season on 32 points; however, because the USL designates the first tie-breaker to be the head-to-head record based on total points in League games, Fresno and Ventura would qualify for the playoffs, and the Quakes would finish third for the second season in a row.

It's tense, nail-biting stuff. Let's hope the Storm and/or the Seals can do us a favor!

13 JULY 2007 - On a day which is supposed to be unlucky, and on possibly the most important day for American soccer in over 20 years - the day David Beckham officially joined Los Angeles Galaxy - the San Fernando Quakes came within touching distance of a little piece of history of their own: qualification for the post-season for the first time in the franchise’s short history. The Quakes overcame the visiting Southern California Seahorses with a 3-1 final scoreline, and in doing so find themselves within a whisker of the playoffs.

Quakes head coach Juan Florez, sensing the importance of the game, started the match with his strongest possible eleven: Kevin Guppy in goal; Derek Hanks, Robert Pate, Chad Borak and Mike Zaher across the back; playmakers Mat Davis, Daniel Paladini and Dylan Leslie in the center of midfield; Sean Franklin and Sung Kim rampaging down the flanks; and Ryan Shaw as the target man up front. The attacking 4-5-1 formation, which had served the team so well all season, was employed once more. Nothing else than a victory would suffice. The Quakes simply had to win. HAD to win.

The Seahorses, divisional champions and conference semi finalists in 2006, came into the game suffering one of the worst campaigns in the team’s six year history, and were determined to act as spoilers. The Seahorses had already beaten fellow playoff candidates Ventura in their last game. As the game kicked off, in front of almost 450 expectant spectators - the largest home crowd of the year - the Quakes looked to dominate the game early...

10 JULY 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes take on the Southern California Seahorses at Granada Hills Charter High School on Friday evening in what is by far the most important game of the 2007 PDL season.

The Quakes must pick up a victory over the visitors from La Mirada to ensure that their playoff chances stay alive - anything less than three points, and the Quakes must rely on San Jose, Fresno and Ventura suffering losses in their final games in order for them to progress into the post-season for the first time.

Fan support will be vital - so come on down to Granada Hills this Friday, July 13th, and cheer on your San Fernando Valley Quakes! Kickoff is at 7:00pm!

7 JULY 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes and the visiting San Francisco Seals fought their way to a frustrating 0-0 draw here at Granada Hills Charter High School tonight, in a match which had plenty of chances, and lots of excitement, but no goals.

After last week’s excellent 3-0 victory away against Los Angeles Storm, the Quakes knew that two victories would see them qualify for the playoffs for the first time in the franchise’s history. To that end, head coach Florez started with a strong, attacking formation; Kevin Guppy returned to his familiar position in between the goalposts, Daniel Paladini returned to the lineup after missing the last two games, and 9-goal striker Ryan Shaw continued to lead the forward line. In pleasant evening weather, and in front of a decent 300-stong crowd, the Quakes started the game knowing that a win would see them with one foot in the post-season.

The first half was tight, but exciting, with the Quakes continually seeking to unlock the solid Seals defense. Ryan Callahan raked down the right wing with excellent speed and precision passing, and continually threatened to break the Seals defense apart. The interplay between Callahan and Paladini was at times quite breathtaking, and showcased their effortless one-touch passing to wonderful effect. Paladini was full of tricks and flicks, Mat Davis imparted his usual calming influence on the center of midfield, and Shaw up front had several chances to run at the Seals back line, and was only stopped by some solid Seals defending, and a few sloppy final balls.

Quakes' UCLA defender Mike Zaher has been named to the PDL's "Team of the Week" for his performance in the 3-0 victory over Los Angeles Storm, during which he scored his first ever goal as a Quakes player.

Mike joins Oscar Sims, Sean Franklin, Sung Kim and Ryan Shaw in being recognised for their on-field efforts this season.

Great going guys!

The San Fernando Valley Quakes take on the visiting San Francisco Seals at Granada Hills Charter High School on Saturday in a must-win game, which with a victory could see the Quakes with one foot in the playoffs.

The Quakes enjoyed a marvelous 3-0 away victory against Los Angeles Storm last weekend, and now stand in pole position for post-season qualification. If we win our final two games against the Seals, and then against the Seahorses next Friday, we will be in the playoffs: barring San Jose overturning an 11-goal goal difference, it will be mathematically impossible for anyone except Ventura to overtake us.

So come on down to Granada Hills and cheer on your 2007 San Fernando Valley Quakes. Kickoff is 7pm.

29 JULY 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes enjoyed a hugely important 3-0 victory over Los Angeles Storm tonight, in front of 200 fans at Citrus College Stadium in Glendora.

Three first-half goals from Mike Zaher, Ryan Shaw and Mat Davis secured the win for the Quakes, who maintain their lead at the top of the Southwest Division standings on 28 points, six points ahead of second placed Ventura County Fusion, who beat third-placed San Jose Frogs 2-0 tonight. Both teams have games in hand over the Quakes, who must complete victories over San Francisco and Southern California in their last two games of the season in order to keep their playoff ambitions on course.

The Quakes return home to Granada Hills for their next match, against the San Francisco Seals, next Saturday, July 7th, kickoff at 7:00pm.

23 JUNE 2007 - For the third time in four games, the San Fernando Valley Quakes emerged from their game with a single point. For the third time in four games, the San Fernando Valley Quakes could not find a breakthrough to beat their opponents. Six points from four games is not that bad a haul – but when you consider that, with a little more clinical finishing, and with a little more luck, that six could have been twelve, the picture changes slightly. And, with their rivals picking up points in their games-in-hand, it’s not difficult to see why head coach Florez is glancing over his shoulder at the advancing pack.

In 100-degree heat, the Quakes took to the field against the visiting Fresno Fuego, hoping to turn around the 3-2 defeat they suffered up at Chukchansi Park in May. Five of the regular lineup – Kevin Guppy, Mike Zaher, Sean Alvarado, Daniel Paladini and Mat Davis – were all missing for one reason or another, forcing coach Florez to shuffle his deck. He gave a debut to 24 year-old Kansas Wesleyan University goalkeeper Wayne Johnson, brought midfielder Josh Leon into the starting eleven for just the third time this season, and featured three new faces on the bench – Oregon State duo Alex Christensen and Ryan Callahan, and Santa Clara goalkeeper Kevin Klasila, who was on the bench several times for the Quakes in ‘06, but never took the field...

21 JUNE 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes take on the visiting Fresno Fuego at Granada Hills Charter High School this coming Saturday, June 23rd, in a top-of-the-table clash which could significantly improve the playoff chances of the victorious team - and seriously dent the chances of the losers.

Second-placed Fresno have already beaten the Quakes once this season, enjoying a 3-2 victory up at Chukchansi Park in May. However, you can be assured that the Quakes will be looking to return the favor in this return game - especially with home field advantage!

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE GAME WILL KICK OFF AT 4:00pm, NOT 7:00pm AS PREVIOUSLY ADVERTIZED. This is due to a technical issue at the stadium, and we apologize for any inconveniece the change in kickoff time may cause.

17 JUNE 2007 - To a non-soccer fan, it may seem like a contradiction in terms to call a 0-0 tie an exciting game, but that was exactly what the San Fernando Valley Quakes’ draw with Ventura County Fusion was: exciting. There was energy and passion, moments of sublime skill from both teams, brute strength and moments of controversy, shots on goal, and outstanding goalkeeping. In the end, the only thing missing was goals.

Over 300 fans, including a nice contingent of Fusion supporters making the short trip from Ventura County, enjoyed the game on a warm Father’s Day evening in Granada Hills. The Quakes, hot from their excellent 3-0 victory over Bakersfield on Friday, were looking to capitalize on their strong run of home form, and as such coach Florez made just two changes, starting Sean Alvarado in the center of defense in place of Robert Pate, and giving a full debut to goalkeeper Sean O’Connor, deputizing for Kevin Guppy who was absent from the line-up for personal reasons. By contrast, Fusion were playing just their seventh game of the season...

15 JUNE 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes scored three goals in twelve second half minutes to register a 3-0 victory over the visiting Bakersfield Brigade at Granada Hills Charter High School tonight, consolidating their place at the top of the PDL Southwest Division standings and taking another step towards playoff qualification.

With one eye on the vitally important game against Ventura on Sunday, coach Florez switched his starting eleven around a little, bringing defender Mike Zaher and midfielder Marcus Chorvat into the fold, and dropping recent starters Mat Davis, Sean Alvarado and Oscar Sims to the bench. Florez also continued with the now familiar 4-5-1 formation which has worked well so far this season, encouraging the speed of wide midfielders Sean Franklin and Sung-Hyun Kim, with Ryan Shaw as a lone target man up front. Brigade, coached my former MLS star Francisco Gomez, started a strong team featuring 7-goal striker Santiago Aguilera Navarro and defensive stalwart Jay Gore...

14 JUNE 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes continue their quest for a PDL Playoff spot this weekend with two vital home games which, assuming both games end in home victories, could see us take a major step towards post-season qualification for the first time.

The action kicks off on Friday night, 15 June, at 7:00pm, when the Quakes host the visiting Bakersfield Brigade (5-4-0) for the first and only time this season. The Brigade, who are coached by former MLS star Francisco Gomez, are themselves looking to consolidate their second place in the standings - it’s likely to be a close, exciting game!

Then, on Sunday, 17 June, the Quakes take on Ventura County Fusion (5-1-0), another team challenging for a playoff spot, and who have a number of games in hand over the Quakes. The Quakes will be out for revenge after suffering a 2-0 defeat in Ventura earlier this year. Kickoff for this game is also 7:00pm.

It’s going to be an enormously important weekend of soccer in the San Fernando Valley - the boys in blue could use your support now more than ever!

9 JUNE 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes were held to their second 1-1 draw of the season by Orange County Blue Star at Concordia University in Irvine, a repeat of the match result from when OC visited Granada Hills in May. Further details on the goal scorer will be posted when it is available.

The tie keeps the Quakes at the top of the Southwest Division standings, five points ahead of the four way-tie between Bakersfield, Ventura, Fresno and San Jose, who are all on fifteen points - although the Quakes have played one game more than the Brigade, two more than Fuego and the Frogs, and FOUR more than the Fusion.

The Quakes return to the San Fernando Valley this weekend for a massively important double-header, taking on Bakersfield at 7:00pm on Friday night, and then facing off against Ventura at 7:00pm on Sunday.

3 JUNE 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes enjoyed a massively successful road trip to northern California this weekend, coming away with back-to-back victories and taking a 4 point lead at the top of the Southwest Conference standings.

The Quakes beat the San Francisco Seals on Saturday at San Marin High School in Novato, the only goal of the game coming from Sean Franklin in the 78th minute after a tense, well-matched first half. Even though the Seals out-shot the Quakes 11 to 7, it was our boys who came away with three well-earned points.

Things got even better on Sunday when the Quakes beat the high-flying San Jose Frogs at the PAL Stadium in San Jose; the Frogs, who competed in the rival National Premier Soccer League last season, had been the surprise package of the year, and had only previously lost to Los Angeles Storm in all of 2007. Both Quakes goals were scored by Sung-Hyun Kim, one in each half. Interestingly, USL Soccer.com reports that Quakes coach Juan Florez was ’sent off’ in the 45th minute, just after the Frogs scored their equalizing goal through midfielder David Frank. The details of this are unclear at the moment; more information on this will be posted when it is available.

Nevertheless, the six-point haul takes the Quakes to 19 points for the season, four points clear of Fresno, Ventura and San Jose who each have 15; however, the Quakes have played two more games than Fresno and San Jose, and three more than Ventura, and must hope that teams lower down in the standings will upset our closest rivals so that they do not cash in on their games in hand.

The Quakes next game is away in Orange County next weekend, June 9th; we return to Granada Hills to face Bakersfield the following Friday night, June 15th.

Match reports by Jon Broxton

Former San Fernando Valley Quakes and UCLA striker Kamani Hill has been called up to the full US Men’s National Team squad for the international friendly against China on Saturday. Hill, who made ten appearences and scored one goal for the Quakes last season, is now playing professionally for VfL Wolfsburg in the German Bundesliga, and is one of four uncapped players in coach Bob Bradley’s roster, which also includes USMNT veterans such as Kasey Keller, DaMarcus Beasley, Carlos Bocanegra, Clint Dempsey and Ante Razov.

Since leaving the Quakes, Kamani has featured in nine matches for Wolfsburg, but has yet to score a goal.

The full USMNT roster for the China game can be found here. The game, which is taking place at Spartan Stadium in San Jose, is being screened live on ESPN2 on Saturday; kickoff is at 5:00pm.

27 MAY 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes enjoyed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the visiting Lancaster Rattlers today, in front of 250 sweltering spectators braving 95-degree heat at Granada Hills Charter High School. Second half goals from Sean Franklin and Daniel Paladini cancelled out Tremayne Thompson's first half strike, and took the Quakes back into second place in the Southwest Division standings.

Coach Florez, who was without the striking partnership of Ryan Shaw and Oscar Sims, played a positive 4-5-1 formation, giving speedy wingers Sean Franklin and Sung-Hyun Kim room to maneuver down the flanks, and giving 16-year old Los Angeles Galaxy prodigy Tristan Bowen his first start at this level as the main target man. Derek Hanks also returned from the hamstring injury which had kept him out of the last five games.

Both teams had played midweek games - the Quakes losing away in Fresno on Thursday, the Rattlers losing away at LA Storm on Friday - and the first half was a tight, cagy period of few chances, with both teams looking a little lethargic, clearly a combination of fatigue and the heat...

24 MAY 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes suffered a setback in their quest to reach the SouthWest Divisional playoffs following a 3-2 defeat away to Fresno Fuego tonight.

The first half ended tied at 2-2, following goals by Oscar Sims and Sung-Hyun Kim for the Quakes (both off Gerardo Bravo assists), and Amaury Nunes and Pablo Campos (a PK) for Fuego. Fuego scored the game-winning goal in the 74th minute of play through Campos's second goal of the game, off an assist by Brazilian playmaker Fabricio Codeceira.

The defeat leaves the Quakes in fourth spot in the standings, two points behind joint league leaders Ventura, Fresno and San Jose, ahead of their home game against Lancaster on Sunday.

Three San Fernando Valley Quakes players have been honored by the PDL by being named to their ’Team of the Week’

Oscar Sims was named in the Week 3 team of the week for his goalscoring exploits in our 5-0 opening day victory over Los Angeles, while Ryan Shaw was named in the Week 4 team of the week for his goalscoring efforts in the 5-2 away victory against Lancaster. Then, just a couple of days ago, Sean Franklin was named in the Week 5 team of the week for his three assists in 4-3 win over Southern California

Congratulations Oscar, Ryan and Sean - keep it up!

22 MAY 2007 - The Quakes take on 2007 expansion franchise Lancaster Rattlers this coming Sunday, May 27th, kicking off at 3:00pm at the ReMax Epicenter at Granada Hills Charter High School.

The Quakes have already beaten the Rattlers once this season - a thrilling 5-2 victory up in Antelope Valley - and will be looking to repeat the result at the weekend.

Come on down to Granada Hills and support the boys in blue!

19 MAY 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes continued their impressive start to the season, holding off a late challenge from the Southern California Seahorses to take a 4-3 victory at Goodman Stadium in La Mirada, their first ever victory against the Seahorses in franchise history. The Quakes continued the free-scoring style that has seen them score eleven goals in their first four games, enjoying four goals in the first half through strikes by Ryan Shaw, Oscar Sims (2), and Mat Davis, scoring his first ever goal for the club he founded. The Seahorses replied through Sven Simon and Justin Farnsworth, and the first half ended with the Quakes 4-2 ahead.

The second half was tighter, with the Quakes playing to protect their lead; the Seahorses efforts at reducing the gap were rewarded in the 82nd minute by Sven Simon’s second goal of the game, but the seach for the equalizer proved un-fruitful, and the Quakes finished the game 4-3 winners. The victory takes the Quakes to a 3-1-1 record, puts them into second place in the SouthWest Conference standings behind Ventura County Fusion, who themselves beat Fresno Fuego 3-2 in Thousand Oaks on Friday night.

Match report by Jon Broxton

12 MAY 2007 - The San Fernando Valley Quakes were held to a 1-1 draw by the visiting Orange County Blue Star here at Granada Hills Charter High School tonight, despite playing for most of the second half with a man advantage, following the dismissal of Blue Star defender Matt Tracy.

Following the 5-2 victory away in Lancaster on Thursday night, head coach Juan Florez made a couple of changes; midfielder Dylan Leslie made his first start of the season in place of Mike Zaher, initiating a switch-around which saw Sean Franklin return to his traditional defensive position, and young Peruvian defender Gerardo Bravo made his home debut, after impressing in the Antelope Valley away game. Derek Hanks also returned from his hamstring injury and earned a place on the substitute’s bench.

10 MAY 2007 - The Quakes take on 2006 National Playoff semi-finalists and Southwest Division runners-up, Orange County Blue Star, this coming Saturday, May 12th, kicking off at 7:00pm at the ReMax Epicenter at Granada Hills Charter High School. The Quakes will be looking to build on tonight’s victory in Lancaster, and re-concentrate their efforts to qualify for the 2007 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

Come on down to Granada Hills and support the boys in blue!

10 MAY 2007 - The Quakes got back to winning ways tonight with a marvellous 5-2 victory over the new Antelope Valley expansion franchise, Lancaster Rattlers, at Palmdale High School in Palmdale. One goal from Oscar Sims (his third of the season) and four from Ryan Shaw - two in each half - secured the Quakes our second victory of the season, and took us back to the top of the Southwest Division standings.

The Quakes led 3-0 at half time through Sims and Shaw before the Rattlers replied through Mauricio Harrie and Ricky Figueroa to make it 3-2 with just 10 minutes remaining. However, the Quakes reasserted themselves, and two more goals from Shaw in the final two minutes saw the game finish 5-2.

Match report by Jon Broxton

7 MAY 2007 - On a fine, clear May evening in the San Fernando Valley, the new-look black and blue San Fernando Valley Quakes laid down a definite challenge to the traditional powerhouse teams of the Southwest Division: this year, the Quakes are better, and we’re out to win.

With new coach Juan Florez in charge of his first game, and with an exciting mix of returning faces from 2006 and fresh blood plucked mainly from the Cal State Northridge men’s varsity team, the Quakes took to the field against their opponents in white, Los Angeles Storm, and from the opening moments asserted their on-field dominance in almost every part of the game.

The Quakes scored early. In the second minute, CSUN striker Sung Hyun Kim burst down the left flank, cut inside the Storm defense, and aimed a speculative shot at Storm keeper Trevor Hunter, who was unable to hold the onto the ball. Fellow CSUN striker Oscar Sims pounced and scored a simple tap-in from three yards. 1-0 Quakes. The rest of the first half was a controlled affair, with the Quakes constantly looking the more threatening. Anchored by superb the midfield control of Mat Davis and Dan Paladini, coach Florez used a long-ball technique to great effect, exploiting the natural speed of Kim and Sean Franklin down the flanks. Time after time the Quakes wingers broke free of the Storm defense, and it was only a matter of time before another goal was scored.

An entertaining night was had by all as the Quakes hosted the exhibition match between Real Salt Lake and Chivas USA.

Both teams tested their starting line ups as they prepare for the upcoming MLS Season

Freddy Adu takes on two Chivas USA players

 

 

A squad made up of three players from the Quakes 2006 squad and players trying out for the 2007 team took on Lalas, Wynalda, and the rest of the Hollywood United team prior to the MLS exhibition match between Real Salt Lake and Chivas USA. The Quakes defeated Hollywood United 2 - 1 after missing several second half chances. The Quakes home opener is May 4th against the L.A. Storm.