Royal knocks off Chelan

ROYAL CITY - Royal built a 3-1 half-time lead then coasted in the second half to a 3-2 prep soccer non-league victory over Chelan on Saturday on the Royal field.

Coach Jens Jensen pulled his starters after 50 minutes and allowed substitutes and youngsters some playing time. They gave up one goal with about five minutes to go but, otherwise, performed well.

"It was a good opportunity to see Chelan in the event that we have a chance to play them later in the post-season," Jensen said.

Royal struck early and had all three of its goals before 21 minutes were played. Alex Ramos started the scoring at 1:16 off an assist from Marco Soto.

Chelan scored at 5:07. Then Royal went back to work. Ivan Rodriguez put in an unassisted goal, and Valente Cortez converted a Jose Medina pass into another goal.

Royal took 12 shots on goal and held Chelan to seven. Keeper Jose Jimenez made five saves for the Knights. Cesar Bernal applied most of the offensive pressure with four shots.

Royal tied at the top of the SCAC East standings with Connell and Wahluke at 3-1, will start the second run through the league slate today at Wahluke.

Thursday, the Knights will host Kiona-Benton in another SCAC East game.