Fillmore’s California United Claims Coast Soccer League Title With Clutch Victory
Fillmore’s California United FC 2016 Boys team claimed victory at the Coast Soccer League Division 2 North title on Sunday, November 24. Pictured Left to right: Andres Martinez, Gera Alvarado, Esteban Valdés, Aaron Gonzalez, Kevin Ponce, Fabián Cabrera, Neymar Alcaraz, JJ Garcia, Roman Garibay, Rex Masterson Top row: Josue Garcia, Javier Alcaraz. Not pictured: Miguel Martinez. Photo credit Anthony Morales.
Fillmore’s California United FC 2016 Boys team claimed victory at the Coast Soccer League Division 2 North title on Sunday, November 24. Pictured Left to right: Andres Martinez, Gera Alvarado, Esteban Valdés, Aaron Gonzalez, Kevin Ponce, Fabián Cabrera, Neymar Alcaraz, JJ Garcia, Roman Garibay, Rex Masterson Top row: Josue Garcia, Javier Alcaraz. Not pictured: Miguel Martinez. Photo credit Anthony Morales.
By Gazette Staff Writers — Wednesday, November 27th, 2024

By Richard Chang

FILLMORE, Calif. (Nov. 25, 2024) — California United FC 2016 Boys team clinched the Coast Soccer League Division 2 North title on Sunday with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Oxnard FC in the season finale at Fillmore Middle School.

Entering the match tied atop the standings with 25 points each, the stakes were clear: a win would secure first place for either side, while a draw would give Oxnard FC the title. California United delivered under pressure, with Fabian Cabrera scoring the decisive goal in the first half off a pinpoint assist from Rex Masterson.

Goalkeeper Kevin Ponce was instrumental in the victory, recording a clean sheet with multiple critical saves to keep Oxnard off the board. The shutout marked another highlight in Ponce’s impressive season, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top goalkeepers.

California United’s success this season has been guided by an experienced and dedicated coaching staff, including Head Coach Miguel Martinez, Assistant Head Coach Josue Garcia, and Assistant Coach Javier Alcaraz. Their leadership and tactical acumen have been pivotal in developing the team’s strong chemistry and resilience.

With the victory, California United finishes the season with 28 points (9-2-1), edging out Oxnard FC, which ends with 25 points (8-3-1). Oxnard United SC placed third with 23 points (7-3-2), followed by Farwest United at 23 points (7-3-2).

California United’s season was also marked by individual accolades, with Ponce being named Player of the Month for September and Masterson earning the honor in October. League officials will announce the November Player of the Month and Player of the Year awards next week.

“It was a total team effort,” said California United head coach Miguel Martinez. “We’ve worked all season for this, and to see it come down to a performance like today is incredibly rewarding. I’m so proud of these players.”

California United now looks ahead to 2025 with momentum, eager to build on their league title and continue their strong form.