BAKERSFIELD, CA - The Bakersfield College men's soccer team secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Santa Barbara in a closely contested match at home. The Renegades managed to hold off a late surge from the Vaqueros, earning a hard-fought win.

The Renegades took the lead early in the first half, with Luis Gil opening the scoring in the 12th minute. Jonathan Juarez and Joshua Bryant combined to set up Gil, who finished confidently to put Bakersfield ahead 1-0. BC carried the lead into halftime, controlling much of the possession and limiting SB's chances.

Bakersfield extended their lead just after the break. In the 49th minute, Hugo Viramontes found the net with an assist from Gil, making it 2-0. The Renegades appeared in control, but Santa Barbara began to press more aggressively as the game progressed.

Christopher Gandara, assisted by James Meecham and Oscar Villagrana, added what proved to be the decisive goal in the 80th minute. The last goal gave Bakersfield a 3-0 cushion, but the visitors refused to go quietly.

The Vaqueros pulled one back in the 85th minute with an unassisted goal, cutting the deficit to 3-1. In the match's final moments, Santa Barbara converted a penalty kick in the 90th minute to bring SB within one, making the score 3-2.

Despite the late pressure, Bakersfield's defense, anchored by goalkeeper Victor Melendez, held firm to secure the victory. Melendez made several key saves throughout the match, finishing with four saves.

With the win, the Renegades move 2-2 on the season. The men will head out on the road this Friday, then return home to play on Tuesday, September 20th, against East Los Angeles at 3:00 pm.