Things are starting to click for the Santa Barbara High boys soccer team.
The Dons got a goal from Alex Navarro in the 78th minute to beat Long Beach Millikan 2-1 and successfully defended their championship at the South Torrance Holiday Classic.
It was the fifth straight win for Santa Barbara (7-3-3), which is unbeaten in its last nine games.
“This is something we can build upon as far as confidence goes,” said coach Todd Heil, whose team has allowed only two goals in its five-match win streak.
Edgar Ruiz gave Santa Barbara a 1-0 lead against the No. 4-rated team in CIF Division 1. Ruiz scored off an assist from Alex Carmona in the 25th minute.
Millikan equalized in the 64th minute on an own goal, as a ball deflected off a Santa Barbara defender and got past goalkeeper Miguel Solis.
Navarro delivered the game-winner on a rebound. Tony Alfaro headed a corner kick on goal that was blocked by the Millikan goalkeeper and Navarro was there to put the ball in the net.
Alfaro was named the tournament’s most valuable player and teammates Sanford Spivey, Spencer Pritchard and Alfredo Ibarra were selected to the all-tournament team.
The games were played on turf fields.
Santa Barbara returns to action after Christmas at the Buena Tournament.
Nice work Dons! Impressive!