December 4, 2024

OC Sports Zone: Community First

Godinez boys soccer team prepares for CIF semifinals after 2-0 victory over Santa Ana Valley

Godinez soccer coach Ruben Fernandez talks to his players during a break Wednesday. (Photo courtesy Godinez Athletics)

Godinez High’s boys soccer team is preparing for Saturday’s Division 1 semifinals after defeating Santa Ana Valley 2-0 in the quarterfinals Wednesday at Santa Ana Valley. The match will be Saturday at Mira Costa.

Both Godinez goals scored were scored in the second half by senior forward Ivan Lopez, according to Athletic Director Lisa Treen.

“I thought yesterday was a great performance by the whole team,” said Godinez Coach Ruben Fernandez. “We were able to control the game through our possession, and also kept Valley from getting any scoring opportunities through solid defense. Bryan Martinez also had a great game at right back, both defending and getting forward in the attack, as he did in the assist he provided in the second goal. 

“Also, Antonio Diaz was very good at controlling the game in the midfield. But I want to emphasize that the whole team was very solid yesterday. They executed the game plan to perfection.”

Fernandez said the Grizzlies (12-1-2) are aware of how talented Mira Costa (13-1-3) is.

“I know they are a good team,” he said. “They are physical, have the size, and are dangerous on set pieces. We need to produce a good defensive performance in order to win that game.”

The winner faces the winner of the other semifinal before Servite and Loyola. The finals are scheduled for either Friday, May 28 or Saturday, May 29.