Segota Hurts Ankle in Practice, But Should Be Able to Play Sunday

SAN DIEGO — The Sockers received a scare in practice Friday when Branko Segota fell and remained on the ground, holding his right ankle.

Segota, the team’s second-leading scorer, had been tripped during a scrimmage and was unable to continue practicing. After his ankle was wrapped in ice for 15 minutes, Segota was able to walk without limping.

Trainer Larry Duensing said Segota had irritated soft tissue in his ankle.

“He didn’t swell much,” Duensing said. “I don’t think it will keep him out of Sunday’s game. It’s just a wait-and-see.”

The Sockers begin the Major Indoor Soccer League semifinals against Minnesota Sunday at the Sports Arena.

Meanwhile, Coach Ron Newman was mystified when Kaz Deyna did not appear at practice. However, Newman later was told that Deyna became ill after eating breakfast at a restaurant on the way to practice.