Santa Barbara was pushed by a feisty San Marcos before pulling away to a 4-0 victory in a Channel League boys soccer match at Valley Stadium.
The Dons scored three goals in the last eight minutes to break open a tight game.
“San Marcos played with a lot of heart, and it’s always tough to play at Valley Stadium,” said Santa Barbara coach Todd Heil.
The Royals held Santa Barbara to one goal in the first half. Edgar Ruiz scored it after a long throw-in from Tyler Schleich was flicked to him at the back post.
San Marcos fought hard to stay in the match.
“Being down 1-0 at half kept their spirits up,” Heil said. “They were definitely spirited tonight. Credit to San Marcos for their energy.”
That energy was zapped when the Dons erupted for their three late goals. In the 72nd minute, Tony Alfaro got on the end of a free kick and scored.
One minute later, Alfredo Ibarra scored off a Schleich assist. Ruiz finished the outburst in the 79th minute with his second goal, coming off a cross from Marco Sanchez.
The Dons (15-4-3, 5-1-0) put their league title defense on the line next week with matches against Dos Pueblos on Tuesday at Ventura on Thursday
