Colton boy’s varsity soccer claimed a 2-0 victory over the Pioneer Valley Panthers in last Thursday’s quarter final game. The Yellowjackets’ success has earned them the opportunity to play in the semifinals for the first time in the school’s history.

In spite of the tiring four hour bus trip up to Santa Maria, the Jackets virtually dominated the first half of the game, never allowing the ball on their half for long. Although the Yellowjackets’ started off strong, the first half ended with a tie of 0-0.

Less than three minutes into the second half Colton’s Cesar Barajas broke through the Panthers’ defense to score the first goal of the game, putting the Yellowjackets up 1-0. Pioneer Valley quickly regained momentum for retaliation, but failed to get the ball past Colton’s goalkeeper, senior Kenny Koperski.

Junior Ernesto Alcala scored the Yellowjackets’ second goal with less than two minutes remaining in the game. Alcala’s success secured Colton’s 2-0 victory, thus eliminating Pioneer Valley from playoffs.

In a brief post-game interview, Barajas described a feeling of happiness after scoring that first goal. “I never give up, and I always try everything to score goals to get my team to the CIF Championship. That’s our goal and dream,” said Barajas.

After playing a key role in Colton football’s CIF Southern Section Central Division Championship last school year, senior Tyler Rich faces the possibility of a second ring. “I’m not focusing on a ring. I’m focusing on the task at hand. Which is winning the next game. A ring is nice, but a CIF Championship for the first time in Colton soccer history is even better,” said Rich.

CIF Southern Section Division 5 Semifinals will be hosted at Colton Memorial Stadium on Tuesday, February 28th, at 3:15 PM. Show your support!