Panthers Defeat Wolverines in Regular-Season Finale, Advance to 3C2A SoCal Regionals

The Chaffey College men's soccer team closed out the regular season with a decisive 2–1 victory over San Bernardino Valley College on Wednesday afternoon. The Panthers delivered a sharp, disciplined performance on both sides of the ball, securing momentum heading into next week's postseason opener.

Chaffey struck early to set the tone. In the 9th minute, Kevin Velasquez put the Panthers on the board, finishing a well-placed pass from Julio Martinez to give Chaffey an immediate 1–0 advantage. Martinez continued to fuel the attack, pressing the Wolverines' back line and generating opportunities throughout the first half.

The Panthers doubled their lead in the 64th minute when Martinez capitalized on an opportunity and driving a shot into the net to extend the advantage to 2–0. His goal, combined with his earlier assist, highlighted a standout performance from the freshman forward.

Chaffey's defense held strong for much of the match, with Aiden Cardenas, Ryan Pruitt, Alberto Gomez, and Alesandros Sanchez anchoring a compact and organized back line. Midfielders Adrien Vazquez, Mateo Soria, and Ernesto De Lara controlled tempo through the middle, limiting the Wolverines' possession and helping the Panthers dictate the flow of play.

Goalkeeper Christian Hernandez protected the lead late, recording three saves and keeping the Panthers in control despite a San Bernardino Valley goal in the 88th minute that made it 2–1. Chaffey managed the closing minutes with composure to secure the win.

With the victory, the Panthers completed the regular season on a high note and earned the No. 12 seed in the 3C2A SoCal Regionals. Chaffey will host No. 21 seed Santa Barbara City College in Round 1 on Wednesday, Nov. 19, at 2 p.m.