San Marcos suffered a season-opening setback to Newbury Park on Tuesday in a 4-2 non-league loss.
The Royals fell behind 2-0 in the first half before halving the lead in the third minute of the second half. Oscar Perez converted a free kick from 22 yards out. But the Royals put themselves back into a two-goal hole by allowing Newbury Park to respond one minute later.
A third goal within the first 10 minutes to start the second half came when Jonas Romero knocked home a penalty kick for the Royals, making the score 3-2. Newbury Park added their final goal late in the game.
“For it being our first game I thought we did well at times,” said Royals head coach Daniel Torres. “We obviously still have to pay attention to detail and get better, not only on defense be cause we gave up the four goals, but also on offense creating better chances.”
Torres is a first-year coach at San Marcos. He joins the Royals after leading Carpinteria and Laguna Blanca to CIF Finals appearances in the past five years. He said the team played with great determination but roles are still being established in a new system.
“It’s going to take a while but I love their determination.”
The Royals return to the pitch on Friday at the Harold Young Tournament at Buchanan High School in Fresno.
