Coming off an impressive scrimmage win over San Clemente 3-0, the Aztecs begin another season with great hope to compete in the CIF finals. Following the San Clemente scrimmage, on 12-2 Esperanza hosted the 1^st game of the Aliso Cup tournament against Mater Dei. The 1st period was evenly matched with both teams playing aggressive offense and defense. Esperanza had scoring opportunities throughout the period but fell short. Eddie Arellano took 4 shots on goal nearly scoring on each. Daniel Borst and Cory Wolfrom displayed exceptional ball skills controlling the middle and keeping the Aztecs in the offensive position.  Jeff Price also displayed his skills handling the balls and passing around the box. The 1^st period ended 0-0.

     The 2^nd period was again played with intensity from both teams eager to score. With 19 minutes remaining the Aztecs stepped it up dominating play at both ends. Price and Borst with pass backs in the box came up wide on back to back attempts. Evan Roche contributed with two offensive strikes to the goal however, both were off the mark. With 2:47 remaining Mater Dei pushed the ball forward and penetrated the defense near the top of the box and shot a rocket into the net. The game ended with Mater Dei on top 1-0. Despite this loss Esperanza displayed talent on both sides of the field with strong defensive play from Evan, Roberto, T.J., Carter, and Jerrod in goal. Offensively the Aztecs displayed talented play from Borst, Price, Wolfram, Eddie and Jeremy.