Irvine, CA — Foothill had its 4th away game in a row as they traveled to take on the Bulldogs of Portola on Tuesday night. By way of the score, a 0-3 drubbing by Portola, one would think that the Knights were the inferior team on the field but that was not the case. Foothill had most of the possession and had plenty of chances in front of goal. However, several defensive miscues led to easy chances on the fast break counter attack. Under the current winless road trip, Beckman (L), Tustin (L), and now Portola (L), as well as the draw with Irvine (T), the Knights have looked out of sorts and desperate. They are forcing the play rather than taking what the game and opponent gives them. Foothill has truly been unlucky and hindered by some questionable calls but the play on the field and atmosphere on the bench is tight and uncomfortable. To the players credit, individually, they are trying to take the burden on themselves but it's misguided. This is a team sport and it is impossible to do by yourself. As we have seen in the World Cup, many teams with great players have been eliminated. Great players can change a handful of moments but only a team can endure trials, overcome setbacks, and consistently rise victorious. If you want to do it alone, try tennis. Again, this score line does not match the scoring chances, amount of time attacking, quality of players, or even dangerous opportunities...but that is the game of soccer. We were outplayed on a few occasions but Portola converted and Foothill did not. Back to the drawing board as the coaching staff tries to help the team remember that we are the same team that started this season 3-0.