A shootout is anticipated this weekend when U17 Boys Real So Cal White and West Coast FC clash Saturday during the second week of Coast Soccer League Premier action.

Anticipated by everyone, that is, except for So Cal coach Norman Mejia.

“I know the fans are all looking for an offensive showdown, but we’re focusing much more on our defense,” Mejia said. “We need to fix the troubles we have had in the back.”

Come on coach, that’s no fun.

Defense wasn’t a big theme when Real So Cal provided fireworks during a 5-3 win over Chelsea SC B92 Black, or even when West Coast FC put up a handful of goals itself in a 5-2 victory over Pateadores Blue.

It was those two performances that got people clamoring for a goal-fest Saturday, but coaches know best, and Mejia understands that defense will be the key to his group’s success.

A couple of backline members in particular are essential to holding the unit together and providing the glue.

Jose Carranza has been a staple at starting defender for So Cal for a few years, while right back Alex Markes is coming along well and plays with his wits – the same wits that help him maintain a 4.0 GPA at Harvard-Westlake High School.

Along with defender Andrew Vu, all will be especially important given that the team lost standout defender Blake Steele last week to a knee injury.

That will make the task of containing West Coast FC that much more difficult. With attacking players like Guillermo Licona, Juan Mendoza and striker Juan Gutierrez West Coast is a potent opposition, tough to handle for any team whether healthy or not.

“They are a team that has been together a while, and they’ve been able to add a few new players to become one of the best teams in the division,” Mejia said. “I think we have a good group to and things are coming together. I was just a little disappointed with three goals given up (last week).”

As for the goals scored for Real So Cal, Israel Sandoval produced two while Ericson Penate got in on the action as well.

Newcomer Cory Vilchis, a tryout who had been playing silver division soccer, also made a fantastic debut with a score of his own.

Expect more goals Saturday. But if Mejia has his way, not too many.