San Marcos defeated Dos Pueblos 2-0 in a Channel League boys soccer match Thursday, handing the Chargers their first loss of the season.
The Royals controlled the match at Scott O’Leary Stadium, with Ramirez contributing a goal and an assist. San Marcos improved to 6-4-2 overall and 3-1-1 in league play. Dos Pueblos, now 7-1-2 and 3-1-1 in the league, struggled to find its rhythm throughout the match.
In the 60th minute, junior Sergio Ramirez broke the deadlock with a stunning goal. Four minutes later, he set up senior Jose Ramirez for a second goal, securing the win.
San Marcos dominated the midfield and pressured Dos Pueblos’ defense. “We wanted to force them to one side and press with two forwards,” said Sergio Ramirez.
Dos Pueblos coach Matt York praised San Marcos’ defense for disrupting his team’s strategy. “They controlled the midfield and didn’t let us play from the back, which led to turnovers and offensive chances for them,” he said.
By the time Dos Pueblos adapted, they were already down by two goals. “We kept playing the same way, and San Marcos took advantage,” York said. “It was like stepping into a trap.”
Goalkeeper Isaac Jimenez kept Dos Pueblos in the game early on, but Ramirez’s shot broke the deadlock. After a turnover deep in Dos Pueblos’ end, Axel Martinez passed to Ramirez, who took the ball to the right wing. He sent a left-footed shot over the goalkeeper and into the net for a 1-0 lead. “I just decided to hit it toward the far post,” said Ramirez. “I think the goalkeeper expected a cross, so I surprised him.”
The second goal came when Ramirez passed to Jose Ramirez, who scored to seal the win. Coach McLean praised both players’ creativity and movement. “Sergio is a player who does a lot of things he sees on TV, and it’s great to see him make it work on the field,” he said.
Jose Ramirez’s play was also notable. “He’s an elite player,” McLean added. “He has great control and balance, and he continues to play through fouls.”
Despite the loss, York highlighted sophomore Chris Barreto’s effort, naming him the Dos Pueblos Man of the Match. “He gave maximum effort and was key in winning back possession,” York said.
Looking ahead, York sees the loss as a valuable learning experience. “It’s a great opportunity to grow. We’ll bounce back against tough teams next week.”
Dos Pueblos will play at Oxnard on Monday, then face Pacifica at home Wednesday and Santa Barbara on Friday. San Marcos will play at Buena on Monday and at Oxnard on Friday.
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