After a late comeback against Hancock on Friday, the valiant Vaqueros season came to an abrupt end when they lost to San Diego City College in the second round.

Against Hancock, City College men’s soccer team were dead and buried for most of the game, however their never say die attitude helped spur the team to a 2-2 draw, and push to extra time, eventually beating Hancock 5-4 on penalties.

“This was a game for the fans,” said head coach John Sisterson. “We showed freshman nerves in the beginning, but the lads showed a lot of heart and never gave up.”

After the exciting end on Friday, City College had to recharge their batteries for San Diego City. However, in the game the Vaqueros found it hard to create chances and establish possession.

“We looked tired and we just didn’t have a threat up front, which is unusual for us,” Sisterson said. “Maybe Saturday took too much out of us.”

This season, the Vaqueros battled injuries to key players and ultimately pushed Sisterson to start freshmen. This was evident in the playoffs as the freshmen showed their inexperience and were unable to establish any rhythm in their own game.

Under Sisterson’s leadership, the team has been known for it’s free flowing soccer and goal production. Last year City College bagged 42 goals, but this season they improved by scoring 51, and conceded only 14.

Contrary to previous edition of the Vaqueros, the 2010 squad found a rock solid defense and steady hands in sophomore goalkeeper Yonha Adrabi. The men’s soccer team notched 12 clean sheets and tied for the best defensive line in the state.

But the highlight of this season has been the breakout year for sophomore Kalum Horne and freshman Pierre Mattsson. They both carried the team when the going was tough. Mattsson was the leading goal scorer, from his central midfielder position, for the Vaqueros while Horne has blessed the team with five goals and 11 assists.

Overall the team is very pleased with the outcome of this season, and hopes to build on its success and experience.

“We had a good first year,” said Jean Carlo Guzman. “It ended kind of bitter, but overall we did good and hopefully we can build on this for next season.”

The Vaqueros hope to sustain the core of the team while adding a few pieces to next year’s team.

“We got to the second round of the playoffs and only lost three games,” said Sisterson. “This is a young group and I’m very pleased with our season.”