After a long holiday absence from the field, Oakdale’s soccer squads returned to action for a pair of Valley Oak League games. For the first time since Dec. 14 the boys varsity and junior varsity teams hit the field. Oakdale traveled to Modesto to take on Central Catholic on Tuesday, Jan. 3 where the varsity Mustangs tied the Raiders 3-3. Oakdale then hosted Sierra on Thursday night, Jan. 5 on a muddy field and light rain coming down. The Mustangs fell to Sierra 3-2.

In the tie against Central Catholic, Wesley Allen scored all three goals for Oakdale, two in the first half and a goal in the second half. Allen now has 10 goals in 13 games played this season. Assisting Allen on his goals were Omar Gutierrez and Jake Mendoza, each with one assist. Splitting time in the nets for Oakdale were Daniel Dubiel who had four saves and gave up one goal, and Nate Richardson, who also had four saves but surrendered two goals.

The Mustangs now sit in fourth place with a record of 7-4-2, 1-1-2 in the early part of the league season. Oakdale traveled to Lathrop (4-6-2, 0-3-1) on Monday night following The Leader’s press time. Tonight, Wednesday, Jan. 11, Oakdale will host Weston Ranch (2-6-5, 0-2-2). Game time is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.

JUNIOR VARSITY

With Central Catholic not having a junior varsity team, Oakdale’s JV squad played just one game this week following the extensive break. Oakdale defeated Sierra 4-2 on Thursday night. Two goals by Juan Mata helped pave the way for the team. Mata’s goals were assisted by Miguel Casillas and Edgar Herrera. Carson Frazee added a goal for Oakdale thanks to an assist by Thomas Knierieme and Eric Anaya scored on an unassisted goal for Oakdale.