The San Diego Sockers return to Premiere Arena League-Pro Play on Saturday when they host division rival Revolución Tijuana at the Del Mar Arena.

The Sockers are coming off a 10-9 win against the Las Vegas Knights on Jan. 21 in the semi-finals of the U.S. Open Cup tournament.

San Diego held on to its one-goal lead in what some might consider being the team’s worst defensive effort of the year.

Majell Aterado scored a hat trick in that match, including the game-winning goal with 2:53 to play.

Goals mostly come in abundance in arena soccer and defense might at times be overlooked. That is why the Sockers are hoping to keep the goals flowing and sharpen up their defense against Tijuana

The Sockers have beaten Tijuana in the teams’ last two meetings, outscoring the Revolución 14-11. But San Diego is hoping to change that trend by trying to not give up late goals.

Saturday could be the right time for the Sockers to do so. The last two matches were played in Tijuana, where the Sockers don’t normally take all their starters. Starters are expected to play this weekend. More goals could be expected.

But that could depend on the defense. Can it hold a feisty and aggressive Tijuana team for the entire match?

The game is not only a rivalry match but it can also prove important in the Western Division standings. San Diego (8-2) leads the division with Tijuana sitting in third place (5-5).

If the Sockers beat Tijuana, it could set up an intriguing match up next week when San Diego travels to Tacoma for back-to-back matches against the Stars in two days.

The Stars sit in second place behind the Sockers in the standings.

Ivan.orozco@sandiegored.com

WESTERN DIVISION STANDINGS