BSoc: Dons break down Arroyo Grande defense for 2-1 victory

Carlos Hernandez gets behind the defense but can't put his header on frame as Santa Barbara was held scoreless in the first half.

Carlos Hernandez gets behind the defense but can’t put his header past the Arroyo Grande goalkeeper during the first half. (Presidio Sports photo)

Santa Barbara High’s boys soccer team broke through Arroyo Grande’s packed-in defense for two goals in the second half and then held off the Eagles in the last 12 minutes for a 2-1 non-league victory at Peabody Stadium.

Adrian Gamez broke a scoreless game in the 43rd minute, collecting a long pass from David Sjollema and beating the AG goalkeeper from 10 yards.

Ignacio Rendon made it 2-0 after hitting the post with a shot moments earlier.

Down two goals, Arroyo Grande pushed players forward and cut the deficit in half in the 68th minute. The Eagles continued to pressure but Santa Barbara’s defense was up to the task for the final 12 minutes.

Santa Barbara, which cracked the CIF Division 1 rankings this week at No. 10, improves to 4-1.