San Marcos conceded a goal in the last minute of the first half, and host Montclair added a second goal in the opening minutes of the second half en route to a 3-0 win over the Royals in a CIF-SS Division first-round boys soccer playoff match on Thursday.
“We played ourselves into the game well and created some good chances throughout the game but struggled to convert them,” said San Marcos coach Paul McLean. “Montclair scored a great goal at the close of half and then again in the second half and we struggled to respond. They were solid, and it wasn’t our best night.”
Monclair scored its third goal on a penalty kick after San Marcos was whistled for a hand-ball in the box.
San Marcos finished the year 14-2-3 and champions of the Channel League for the third straight year.
“As coaches, we are really proud of these seniors who have won the Channel League three straight years and have only lost a handful of games,” said McLean. Our captains have done a fantastic job leading our team on the field. Justin Hess, Tully Knoles and Leo Vico have been excellent players and leaders and have epitomized the values of the San Marcos soccer program. They have given 100% effort, put the team first and have embraced their opportunities. We will miss them and the rest of this senior group who were a huge part of our success.”