
In a hard-fought battle on September 24, 2024, Oxnard College Men's Soccer, ranked No. 5 in the state, held the nationally ranked No. 3 Mt. SAC to a 2-2 tie. OC showed resilience and determination throughout the match, controlling possession for large stretches against the heavily favored Mounties.
The game remained scoreless through the first half, but things quickly escalated in the second. Ernesto Rodriguez gave Oxnard the lead in the 55th minute with a brilliant solo effort, breaking the deadlock and energizing the home crowd. Mt. SAC responded ten minutes later when Felipe Cobian equalized with a well-placed strike. Oxnard reclaimed the lead at the 70-minute mark through Andres Gutierrez (PK), who capitalized on a defensive lapse to put the Condors up 2-1.
As the match neared its end, Mt. SAC's relentless pressure paid off in stoppage time. Felipe Cobian found the net again with an assist from Joseph Prado, leveling the game 2-2 and securing the draw for the Mounties.
The Condors' defense remained solid, backed by goalkeeper Adrian Contreras, who made crucial saves to keep Oxnard in the match. Meanwhile, Mt. SAC struggled with discipline, accumulating six yellow cards throughout the contest, reflecting the intensity of the encounter.
Oxnard's draw against one of the top teams in the nation highlights the strength of their program, positioning the Condors as a formidable force in the state. With this result, Oxnard continues to build momentum for the remainder of the season, with high hopes of competing for a state championship.
Oxnard now sets its sights on Taft College on Friday at 4:00 in the Nest, as they aim to continue their stellar season.