Panthers’ Postseason Run Ends in 3-0 Loss to the Vaqueros

The Chaffey College men's soccer team saw its postseason end on Wednesday afternoon, falling 3-0 to Santa Barbara City College in the opening round of the 3C2A SoCal Regionals at home. Despite long stretches of organized defending and disciplined structure, the Panthers were unable to overcome a high-efficiency Santa Barbara attack that capitalized on its chances in both halves.

Santa Barbara struck early, breaking through in the 16th minute and doubling the lead in the 28th. Chaffey's back line, Aiden Cardenas, Ryan Pruitt, Alberto Gomez, and Alesandros Sanchez, absorbed sustained pressure, blocking shooting lanes and forcing the Vaqueros into wide buildup for much of the half. Midfielders Adrien Vazquez, Luis DeAnda, and Mateo Soria worked tirelessly to disrupt transitions and push Chaffey forward when opportunities opened.

Chaffey generated attacking moments through Diego Garcia and Julio Martinez, who combined for five total shot attempts and the Panthers' lone shot on target, testing the Vaqueros and challenging the defensive shape. Gomez and Ernesto De Lara each added attempts from deeper positions as the Panthers searched for a breakthrough.

In goal, Christian Hernandez faced a demanding workload, recording three goals allowed on six shots on goal, making several strong reads off his line and helping organize the defensive unit. His presence helped stabilize Chaffey through extended attacking waves from Santa Barbara, particularly early in the second half.

The Vaqueros added their third goal in the 64th minute, but the Panthers continued to battle through the final whistle, creating late attacking pushes and tightening their shape defensively to prevent further damage.

Wednesday's match concluded a competitive and impressive 2025 season for the Panthers, who finished 12-6-4 overall and 6-3-1 in the Inland Empire Athletic Conference.