Central Soccer’s historic run ends in State Regional Final against Pacific Ridge
Central falls short after giving up three unanswered goals to Pacific Ridge
CARLSBAD, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - For the first time in history, a soccer team from the Imperial Valley played in a state regional final, with the Central Spartans taking on the top-seeded Pacific Ridge Firebirds.
Despite a valiant effort, Central's championship dreams were dashed in heartbreaking fashion, falling 3-2 in overtime.
The match was a defensive battle in the first half, with both teams locked in a scoreless tie at halftime. However, the Spartans came out firing in the second half, with senior forward Joseph Rosas delivering two crucial goals.
Rosas' first goal came from a well-placed shot from distance, breaking the deadlock and putting Central ahead 1-0. Moments later, he struck again, this time from the left side, curling a shot past the Firebirds' goalkeeper to give Central a commanding 2-0 lead.
But Pacific Ridge showed why they were the tournament's top seed. Max Pulvers ignited the Firebirds' comeback, scoring on a deep free kick that found its way into the net, cutting the Spartans' lead to 2-1.
With just three minutes left in regulation, Pacific Ridge delivered another crushing blow when Amel Mobasher converted off a set piece to tie the game at 2-2, forcing overtime.
In the extra period, it was Pulvers once again who sealed the game for Pacific Ridge, scoring the game-winning goal and securing the championship for the Firebirds. Central, after leading by two goals, saw their incredible postseason run come to an abrupt and devastating end.
Despite the loss, the Spartans have much to be proud of. They finished the season with an impressive 26-3-4 record, marking one of the most successful campaigns in program history. Rosas, reflecting on his final game, expressed optimism for the team's future.
"I'm going to miss everyone, especially since our roster has so many freshmen," Rosas said. "I know they're all going to grow over the next few years and hopefully get back to this stage and win it. I'm just grateful and hopeful for them."
Head coach Alonso Garcia also praised his team for their historic achievement.
"For us to never have been in this position before—hosting state games, winning on the road, and making it to the finals—it's something very special," Garcia said. "They should be very proud of what they accomplished."
Although Central didn't get their fairy tale ending, their journey was nothing short of historic.
With a young core returning, the Spartans will undoubtedly have their eyes set on making another deep playoff run next season, hoping to take that final step toward a state championship.
