Fresno Fuego News Release -- www.fresnofuego.com
Saturday, June 11, 2011
FRESNO, Calif. -- The Fresno Fuego and Ventura County Fusion came into Chukchansi Park unbeaten and left just same way. In a game that saw both teams reduced to 10 men, the Fuego (6-0-3) retained their place on top of the USL Premier Development League's Southwest Division after a 1-1 draw with the Fusion (5-0-4) on Saturday night.
The Fuego went down a goal early when Fusion midfielder Jake Hustedt struck in the 20th minute, silencing the crowd of 4,053 at Chukchansi Park. The Fuego would then be reduced to 10 men with the ejection of Tyler Crough in the 23rd minute.
But the Fuego were able to respond after the halftime break and in the 53rd minute Fuego captain Milton Blanco scored on a free kick from 25 yards, bending the ball around the Fusion wall and sneaking it just past the arms of goalkeeper Sam Hayden.
The referee would even the numbers when he showed a red card to Fusion midfielder Michael Jensen for a strong tackle on Blanco. Both teams pressed on trying to find a winner and were able to create chances. The Fuego had more opportunities, out-shooting the visitors, and almost stole victory in the 90th minute when Fuego veteran Eddie Gutierrez was taken down just outside the box. Blanco stepped up and hit a sizzling shot that had Hayden beat yet again only to hit the post and leave the Fuego and Fusion destined for a draw.
The Fuego will next host the Los Angeles Legends on Saturday, June 18th at Chukchansi Park. The first 1000 fans will receive a 2011 team poster courtesy of Supercuts.
In collaboration with Univision Radio, the Fuego will continue to provide free game passes to fans for all home games. Fans just need to call Univision Radio at (559) 430-8500 or become a Facebook friend of the Fuego and print their own game pass.