In a back-and-forth season opener, the Santa Barbara High boys soccer team conceded a goal in the last minute and finished in a 2-2 draw at Moorpark on Wednesday.
Moorpark capitalized on a short Santa Barbara clearance to score the late equalizer.
The Dons took a 1-0 lead in the 15th minute as Jesus Miranda scored on a header off a cross from Luca Pelugo.
Moorpark tied the score on a penalty kick after the Dons were called for a foul in the 18-yard box.
Santa Barbara had freshman Samuel Ceballos in the goal.
“I’m proud of Sammi, he stepped today and made some great saves, and his decision making was excellent,” said coach Ricardo Alcaraz. “He was off his line and ready for their long balls.”
The Dons took a 2-1 lead on a penalty kick by Pelugo. The PK was awarded after Ben Hashim was taken down in the box.
Santa Barbara, however, couldn’t hold the lead against the home side.
Alcaraz praised the play of sophomore midfielder Walker Jensen.
“He is a center-mid by nature, but he has been playing left back and right back for us and has done really well,” said the coach. “He is learning and growing after every practice. He was excellent tonight on the left side of the defense.”