Coming off a hard fought draw against Harvard Westlake the team had two weeks to prepare for the new year. After a long drought without a game, the Phantoms started 2010 with a blowout win against San Marino 8 -0. Being able to take advantage of San Marino's mistakes has given the team confidence in the ability to score. Also having focused on defense during the holidays, the Phantoms could not wait to be tested the first week of Conference play against two tough opponents
Coming into League as 3-time defending Champs, the Phantoms knew that they would have an even bigger target on their backs this year. As expected the long awaited match against Bishop Amat proved to be right. The Lancers were highly motivated and really took advantaged of their home field terrain. During the first 15 minutes Bishop Amat dominated possesion at midfield and kept winning 50/50 balls. After a controversial call , the home team was awarded a penalty kick and capitalized on it. Being down 1-0, the Purple&White kept their cool and regrouped themselves. As the first half went on the Phantoms gained confidence by regaining possesion of the ball and constantly winning 50/50 balls. The half ended 1-0 in favor of the home team
The first half was tough for the Phantoms because of the rugged terrain,but adapted real well and quickly turned things around the second half. During the first five minutes Bernard Sanchez (So.) won an aerial 50/50 ball from 35 yards out and took a shot with the outside part of his right foot, curling the ball right over the diving keeper. This tied the game up 1-1 giving the Purple&White a momentum boost. Minutes later the Phantoms were able to execute of a corner kick with a shot from Chris A(Fr.) which deflected of a Lancer defender right into the back of the net. Playing at home down 2-1, Bishop Amat was not ready to give up. Known for their physical play and aerial game it put Cathedral's defence to the test. The last 10 minutes of the game were excruciating for the Phantom defenders having to defend five corner kicks and two free kicks. The defense did a great job clearing the ball by staying strong, calm , and organized. Goalkeeper Albert Vega(Fr.) also came up big with a last minute save as a shot from the opposing team was deflected of a teamates foot. Overall it was a brilliant team win and a great way to start League.