Campbell Soups Up Ventura Offense in 2-1 Victory

Ventura High has relied on Mike Enfield, a member of the under-20 U.S. National soccer team, to create offense.

However, Enfield has struggled this season and the Cougars have had to find other players for scoring.

Ian Campbell has taken Enfield’s role, scoring twice in a 2-1 victory over Buena on Thursday in a Channel League opener.

“Ian Campbell gives 100% every time he steps on the field,” Coach Todd Tackett said. “He’s always working so hard. He’s not the top goal scorer or assist getter, but he’s always there and he finishes goal-scoring opportunities.”

Campbell scored the winning goal in the 47th minute because of the eagerness of Buena goalkeeper Randy Klamser, who tried to block a cross by John Medina that appeared to be sailing out of bounds.

The ball slipped through his hands, hit the post and fell at the feet of Campbell, who tapped it in for an easy goal.

“It was kind of a freakish play,” Buena Coach Steve Pollock said. “[Klamser] thought the ball was going out of bounds.”

Campbell gave the Cougars (9-2-3) a 1-0 lead in the 25th minute when he took a pass from Shane Wilks and beat Klamser.

The Bulldogs (4-6-2) tied the score six minutes later when Jon Haystead’s shot beat goalkeeper Brian Ornales.

The Bulldogs took seven shots in the second half, but Ornales made five saves.

Enfield touched the ball twice in the game. He played only two minutes in the first half before leaving with an injury. He returned in the 69th minute.