San Marcos fell behind early and couldn’t climb back in Tuesday’s 3-1 boys soccer loss at Ventura, but the Royals nonetheless secured a playoff spot thanks to Dos Pueblos’ tie against Santa Barbara earlier in the day.
Ventura, No. 1 in Division II, followed with its quick-starting reputation by scoring all three goals in the first half.
“Within a minute of the game, Ventura caught us in disbelief with their first goal,” said head coach Brian Eisen.
Alvaro Garcia scored the Royals’ lone goal 10 minutes into the second half, but the Cougars’ defense would allow nothing more.
“Overall, the first half was weak and I was a bit upset in that regard, but I’m definitely proud of how they came out in the second half,” Eisen said. “Looking at it from a positive side, we won the second half.”
Despite already making the playoffs, the Royals are hoping to end their season with a rivalry win over Santa Barbara on Wednesday.
“After years of losing to Santa Barbara, I have a team of kids who want to go out there are take care of business,” said Eisen. “We are expecting a very physical game and we know they are intimidated by us.”
