The San Marcos boys soccer team continued its stellar play on defense, and earned its first Channel League shutout, a 1-0 road victory over Buena.
After a scoreless first half, the Royals pulled ahead when Tanner Charest found Nickolas Hail, who put the ball in the back of the net. Hail had received limited playing time up until this point in the season, and he made the most of his opportunity and earned a crucial win for his team.
“It was a game that would put us in a good situation going into the second half of league,” assistant coach Jesus Landeros said. “It gives us the opportunity to finish anywhere from one to three. We’re in the hunt.”
Center backs Ricky Lopez and Kevin Shaw led the defensive effort, and freshman goalkeeper Justin Vom Steeg turned in another fine performance.
San Marcos improves to 2-1-1 in the Channel League and will have the next week off. The Royals play next at Dos Pueblos on Jan. 24.
