They are another addition to the National Premier Soccer League. And they have rapidly become one of the best teams.

The San Diego Flash joined the league this year as another expansion club in the NPSL, which was created in 2003. The Flash are undefeated after four matches, including a win against cross-town rival San Diego Boca FC and a convincing 3-0 win at Bay Area Ambassadors FC.

The Flash return home Sunday against the Sonoma County Sol, an experienced team out of the Northwest division, at Westview High School.

The Flash will try to continue their winning streak, relying on some of the team leaders to accomplish it. They include forward Larry Emeanu, who scored five minutes into the Ambassadors’ match, and goalkeeper Justin Meyers. Meyers' outing against the Ambassadors was his first shutout of the season.

The Sonoma Sol could be a tough match for the Flash. But if coach Warren Barton's team continues to play the way it has in recent weeks, it should have a good shot at staying on top of the Southwest standings of the Western Division.

The Flash (4-0) lead with 12 points, six ahead of second place teams, the Santa Ana Winds FC (2-1-1) and San Diego Boca FC, who are coming off a tough loss to Santa Ana. The Flash have outscored their opponents this season 11-3. That is the second best goal differential in the division. Hollywood United has scored 20 goals and has only allowed three after five games this season.

Hollywood United are also new to the NPSL. They are having similar results as the Flash. They have won three straight, including an 11-0 win last week against Real San Jose. Hollywood's only loss this season came against the Flash on April 9.

The Flash and Hollywood United are not only leading their respective divisions but they are also in good position to qualify for the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

Hollywood United lead the qualifying standings with 12 points and a 4-1 record despite the Flash being undefeated. Hollywood's goal difference puts them ahead of the Flash, for now. There are three qualifying matches left. If Hollywood wins all three and so do the Flash, then San Diego would clinch a berth to the U.S. Cup because of their win against Hollywood earlier this year. One team from the NPSL West receives a slot in the tournament.

The U.S. Open Cup is the oldest cup competition in U.S. soccer and is among the oldest in the world. It is open to all affiliated amateur and professional teams in the United States. The annual US Open Cup is entering its 98th tournament in 2011.

Ivan.orozco@sandiegored.com

Tha San Diego Flash soccer team has rapidly become one of the best in the league. SanDiegoRed Services