Orange County Soccer Club captures first victory winning 2-0 against Colorado Springs

Patrick McLain posted his first shutout of 2019 for OC Soccer Club. (Photos courtesy OC Soccer Club, For OC Sports Zone)

On a beautiful night for soccer, Orange County SC earned its first three points of 2019 against a tough Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC team winning 2-0 in front of about 1,800 fans at Championship Stadium at Orange County Great Park in Irvine.

To see the slide show, please click on the first photo

Darwin Jones scored two goals to lead OCSC to its first victory of the season.

Aodhan Quinn made his return from an injury as a sub in the second half Saturday.

UCI grad Danny Crisostomo (left) has played every minute for OCSC this season.

The first half went well for Orange County.

Possession was nearly even, and OCSC was comfortable to hold possession in its half before picking their moments to attack.

Darwin Jones looked dangerous on the right flank, and he created multiple opportunities through some solid crosses along with a quality shot that was saved by Colorado Springs’ young goalkeeper Abraham Rodriguez.

Orange County’s defense was solid in the first half, comfortable on the ball and limiting the Switchbacks to just one shot on target. Patrick McLain was solid in goal, making a solid save that kept Colorado Springs off the score sheet.

Jones opened the scoring late in the first half, beating Rodriguez off an excellent assist from Liam Trotter from a set piece. The team continued on for the remaining moments of the half and took the lead into the break.

The second half featured more Orange County quality, as they dominated the game. Jones got a second goal in the 57th minute to put the home team up 2-0.

After the match, he said “it just feels good because we got the win, but it’s always nice to get on the scoresheet.” He had a chance at a hat trick in the 70th minute, but his shot was just right of the post and went into the side netting.

McClain wasn’t challenged much in the second half, but still made his presence known, making a solid save in the 72nd minute from a dangerous shot from the right wing. He was also able to control the ball, eliminating any chance for a follow-up from Colorado Springs.

After the match, head coach Braeden Cloutier talked about the “fantastic team performance from start to finish.” He continued, acknowledging “we knew we needed to get back to basics and give ourselves a chance. Tonight was back to basics and we kept a clean sheet.”

Midfielder Aodhan Quinn spoke highly of the team’s performance on the night of his return, saying “tonight’s performance is going to spark some confidence. We know how good we can be, and now we know we can put it on the field.”

Orange County has a quick turnaround as it will host Tacoma Defiance on Wednesday, April 10 at Championship Soccer Stadium.