FOXBROUGH, Mass. – Bruce Arena issued a challenge to young defender Oscar Sorto after the LA Galaxy’s 2-2 draw with the New England Revolution: it’s time to show what you’re worth.
Sorto’s defensive miscue in the fifth minute resulted in the Revolution’s opener as the 20-year-old was caught ball-watching allowing Revolution forward Teal Bunbury to escape unmarked and tap a cross past Jaime Penedo. The defender soon recovered and closed the match strong but the Galaxy head coach admitted afterward that Sorto must be more consistent.
“A very poor opening 15 minutes for Oscar, and then, I thought that he played well in the second half,” Arena said postgame. “If he wants to become a real player in this league on our team, he’s got to start games better and have more confidence. That’s obviously partly due to not having enough experience but he’s going to get his chances this year, and he’s got to grow each and every game.”
After the match, Sorto took responsibility for his error.
“I agree with him. It’s the first team and every game; I have to come out mentally prepared, and ready to go. I think in this game it took me awhile to get going. I feel like I finished it well though,” said Sorto. “This is a different level, I’ve played in USL where you can get away with things but now I’m competing against top talent, I have to get used to it.”
Even though Sorto endured an up-and-down performance against New England, the Galaxy’s injuries along the back line may lead to the 20-year-old suiting up once more on Saturday against Vancouver Whitecaps FC. If Sorto does get the opportunity, the defender pledges to rebound.
“Right now, the coach is giving me confidence by believing in me,” said Sorto. “I just need to take advantage of every chance.”
