The quest for a CIF title got a lot tougher on Tuesday for the Santa Barbara High boys soccer team as the Dons barely survived a 1-0 decision at Chino Hills to advance to the Division II quarterfinals.
The top-seeded Dons (27-0-1), who won their first-round game 9-0, used a goal from Jesse Gonzalez in the 71st minute to grab the upper hand.
“We struggled a little in the first half,” admitted Dons head coach Todd Heil. “Chino Hills was well organized, well coached.”
Gonzalez broke the scoreless tie by following up a blocked shot of his own with another shot that beat the keeper far post.
On the other end, Santa Barbara’s defense recorded its 18th shutout of the season.
“As long as we keep shutting people out, we’ll be in the game,” Heil said.
Justin Jimenez drew praise from his coach for playing a central role in the Dons’ victory.
“He just had a really good afternoon,” said Heil.
Santa Barbara is guaranteed a home game on Thursday for its quarterfinal match, which will be against Saddleback, who defeated La Sierra 3-1 on Tuesday.
