A fast start was pivotal for the Emporia High boys soccer team against Valley Center Tuesday.
Zander Keosybounheuang’s goal in the second minute set the tone for the Spartans in a 6-1 victory over the Hornets in the regional semi-finals.
Edwin Maciel made it 2-0 in the 27th minute. Valley Center cut the deficit in half in the 31st minute, but Alex Moisman extended the Spartans’ lead to 3-1 in the 32nd minute.
Rudy Bedolla added a goal in the 68th minute and Jefry Linares scored two goals on the night in the 73rd and 75th minutes.
Linares says the Spartans can improve in some areas.
Coach Victor Ibarra said he liked how the Spartans got opportunities and responded in a hurry.
The Spartans improved to 15-2. They’ll host Andover in a regional championship game at 6:15 p.m. Thursday at Emporia High School. Andover defeated Hays Tuesday, 1-0, to get to the regional title game.
