ARKANSAS CITY — One of Doug Desmarteau’s toughest coaching choices ever occurred earlier this year when he named Chase Tonkin the starting goalkeeper for Allen Community Colleges.
“That’s because we have two great goalkeepers,” he noted.
Rather than fret, Victor Ortega, Allen’s other goalkeeper, stayed positive throughout the season, and stepped up when needed.
He was definitely needed Wednesday.
When Tonkin exited Wednesday’s match against Cowley, Ortega stepped in and recorded several key saves in the Red Devils’ 2-1 victory.
The win lifts Allen to 6-6 on the season and 4-4 in Jayhawk Conference play.
“I’ve played goalkeeper, and I know how hard it is to stay into the game if you’re not starting,” Desmarteau said. “Victor has done a great job when he’s had the opportunity.”
Ortega’s saves held up after George Georgiev scored twice for Allen to overcome an early 1-0 deficit.
His first came on an assist from Oscar Marrufo, the second on a corner kick from Erick Rivera.
“George plays on the back line, so he doesn’t get a lot of opportunities to score, but he does a great job with the ball in the air and on corner kicks,” Desmartau said. “He’s been one of our most consistent players this season.”
The Red Devils were without the services of Dorian Fox because of an injury.
“It’s good to see the guys step up and play to our strengths,” Desmarteau said. “Coming back from an early deficit isn’t something we’ve had to do a lot, so this was a good learning experience.”
Allen hosts Independence Sunday.
