Blake Nania scored his first collegiate goal midway through the first half on Friday night and SBCC held on for a 1-0 men’s soccer victory over Citrus at La Playa Stadium.
Nania, a freshman from Santa Barbara High, took a pass from Kalum Horne in the 23rd minute, dribbled through two defenders and beat the keeper on the left side. SBCC (7-5-4, 7-0-3) stayed in first place in the WSC, three points ahead of Canyons, with four games to play.
“They tell to me to get at people when I get it and that’s what I did,” said Nania. “We played OK in the first half but went downhill in the second. I’m glad I got the game-winning goal because 0-0 would not have been acceptable.”
The Vaqueros were without two key players and started 10 freshmen against the last-place Owls (0-9-1). Danny Rodriguez is sidelined with a separated shoulder while Stuart Kirk will miss a few games with a groin injury.
“Blake’s goal was impressive, I think he fell down, then got up and scored,” said coach John Sisterson. “He’s worked hard and waited for his chances. He’s been a sub, then got the start tonight. He’s a tricky little fella and I’m delighted he scored the match-winner and got us three points.”
The Vaqueros have two home games left — Tuesday against Glendale at 7 p.m. and Nov. 13 against Hancock.
