Central boy’s soccer victorious in state opener

Central boy's soccer takes down Dominguez in the first round of the state playoffs.

EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - Mishel Villanueva scored a late penalty to lead the Central Spartans to a 1-0 victory over the Dominguez Dons at Cal Jones Field in the opening round of the California state playoffs on Tuesday.

The CIF San Diego Section Champion Spartans advance to the second round. Central's clean sheet streak continues, as they have yet to concede a goal in five postseason games.

At halftime, the match was tied 0-0. In the second half, Central had numerous scoring opportunities, but could not find the back of the net. Joseph Rosas and Villanueva each hit the woodwork with shots.

In the 72nd minute Villanueva was taking down in the box and the referee blew his whistle for a penalty. Villanueva slotted the penalty into the bottom corner to win the match for the Spartans.

Central will face Laguna Hills on the road on Thursday in the second round.