San Marcos scored less than a minute into the match and rolled to a 5-2 win over visiting Rio Mesa in a Channel League boys soccer opener on Tuesday night at Warkentine Stadium.
Junior Easton Rose won a head ball to sophomore Jose Ramirez and he slipped a pass to senior Tully Knoles for the finish to start the game.
Luke Sheffey made it 2-0 before Rio Mesa scored on a long free kick just before halftime.
Seniors Leo Hernandez and Favian Rosales scored off set pieces to make a 4-1 game.
Rio Mesa got one goal back on the penalty kick, but the Royals answered on a free kick from senior Leonel Olivo from just outside the box to complete the scoring.
“We were pleased with our performance as a group for our first real game together,” said San Marcos coach Paul McLean. “In particular, we thought Jose Ramirez was excellent in the middle of the field. He played great defense and started our attack. Leo Hernandez did a great job in distribution and Easton Rose defended well for their first varsity games.”
The Royals (1-0) host Ventura on Thursday at 6:30 p.m.