Central Spartans roll past Yuma Catholic, 3-0
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The Yuma Catholic Shamrocks fell to the visiting Central Spartans from El Centro, California, in a non-conference matchup Tuesday at Ricky Gwynn Stadium.
Central took control in the second half, ultimately cruising to a 3-0 win.
The first half was scoreless, highlighted by several strong saves from Shamrocks goalkeeper Adriel Casis.
Central's Jorge Rivera and Giovanni Montano each tested Casis with powerful shots, but the keeper was up to the task at least temporarily.
Central broke through midway through the second half when Lionel Cordova converted a well-placed cross from Ryan Burke, giving the Spartans a 1-0 lead.
Moments later, the duo combined again, this time Burke heading home a cross from Cordova for Central's second goal. The Spartans added a third before the final whistle, securing the 3-0 victory.
Central remains undefeated with a record of 15-0-2, a testament to their young but disciplined squad. Senior Emiliano Gonzalez said the team thrives on hard work and unity.
"Every time we come out with the win, it's just a relief to keep going on with our win streak," Gonzalez said. "We're a young team, but we don't play like it. We dominate the ball and keep working the whole game."
Assistant coach Christian Diaz echoed the sentiment, noting the dedication behind the Spartans’ success.
"Since last summer, we've been putting in the work...mornings, weight room, extra field sessions," Diaz said. "It all comes together in games like this. The goals come because the team keeps working and doesn't let up."
Diaz also praised Yuma Catholic for their competitiveness.
"Hats off to Yuma Catholic," he said. "They brought intensity and quality, which keeps us on our toes as we prepare for the rest of the season. We take it one game at a time, building toward the playoffs and aiming for the highest seeding possible."
For Gonzalez, playing tough opponents like Yuma Catholic only strengthens the team.
"Games like this help us develop as a team," he said. "We learn from every match and get better every time."
The Shamrocks will look to bounce back in their next match, while the Spartans continue their pursuit of a perfect season.
