The battle of the south Bay ends 1-1. http://gostanford.ocsn.com/sports/m-soccer/recaps/100203aaa.html Stanford is 2-5-2 and needs to get it in gear ASAP if they want to make it back to the NCAAs, let alone the Final Four.
It was an intense match up. Defensively Stanford played well, but they are missing the offensive fire power needed to get them to the NCAA final. Their best shots were off 2 free kicks taken during the game. Santa Clara didn't get thier midfield/forward line organized until the second half. Then they pressured the defense and were able to break through several times. Santa Clara is a scrappy team who can only get better under the guidance of Cam Rast. What they don't have in the way of skill, they make up with their speed and athleticism.
Stanford is fielding a very young team this year. The starting lineup is still in flux, but they seem to be starting between 3 and 6 freshmen a game. Doubtless they will be much improved by year end -- but that may be too late to crack the tournament.