COMMUNITY COLLEGE REGIONAL SOCCER PLAYOFFS : Islas’ Goal in Overtime Lifts Rancho Santiago

Rancho Santiago’s Francisco Islas was kept silent during most of Saturday’s Southern California men’s soccer playoff game against Glendale.

But Islas didn’t let up.

His persistence paid off with the game-winning goal in the 117th minute, giving the Dons a 1-0 victory.

Islas, who scored nearly half of Rancho Santiago’s goals this season, was limited to three shots during regulation, and was not a factor during most of the overtime period.

But with three minutes left in overtime, he took a rebound from Andrew Otelie on the right side of the net, and banked in the game-winner off the left goal post.

The goal spoiled an outstanding performance by Glendale goalkeeper Erick Alvarado, who made 17 saves.

Glendale had only six shots and Rancho Santiago goalkeeper Scott Zinser didn’t record a save.

“I think we were hungrier than they were,” Rancho Santiago Coach J.P. Frutos said. “We were all over them, and we finally executed. I think luck played a part in that goal.”

The Dons (17-2-3) dominated the first half, outshooting Glendale, 11-3. Rancho Santiago’s best scoring opportunity came when Arthur Salce’s header hit the crossbar at the 25-minute mark.

The Vaqueros (15-1-5) recovered after halftime, but still found themselves on defense most of the second half.

Glendale’s best scoring opportunity came midway through overtime but Giancarlo Madariaga’s shot on a breakaway went wide left.

“(Rancho Santiago) deserved to win,” Glendale Coach Joe Agoston said. “Our game never really developed. We were sloppy in the first half, and settled down in the second. I don’t think we were mentally ready to win at this level.”

The Dons advance to the State tournament, which will be played Dec. 3-4 in Sacramento.