MERCED, Calif. – Kevin Capetillo scored the game-winning goal in the 88th minute to cap a 2-1 comeback win over Stanton University on Thursday night at Bobcat Field.
With the win, the Bobcats (3-0-1) remain unbeaten on the year and extend their home unbeaten streak to 25 consecutive matches dating back to 2021.
Trailing 1-0 after a Stanton goal in the 65th minute, Daniel Borges netted the equalizer off a free kick in the 74th minute before Capetillo provided the heroics in the closing minutes. It marked the first comeback win when trailing in the second half since October 10, 2021.
In Thursday night's comeback win, the Bobcats did it while playing a man down for the entire second half. Also impressive, the Bobcats held an Elks team averaging three goals per game over their last seven contests to just five total second half shots.
Borges' goal was his second of the year and the Turlock, Calif., native has now scored in four straight home matches dating back to last season. His equalizer came directly off a free kick from 22 yards out.
Capetillo, who was credited with the 88th minute game-winning goal, has also scored in both home games this season. His game-winner came off an assist from Diego Fresquez, who received the ball shortly after a throw in and played it in the box to Capetillo. He took two touches to get closer to goal and then beat the keeper with a ground ball shot.
Capetillo is now tied with Ricky Rosas for tenth in program history with 17 career goals.
The Bobcats outshot Stanton 14-7 throughout the match, including 9-2 in the first half prior to the red card. Shots were equal in the second half despite playing a man down.
Xavier Barajas held match-high with four shots, one on target. Borges recorded three shots all together. The senior nearly scored in the ninth minute but Elks keeper Finn Schulte made a kick save.
Edwin Casillas and Luis Villegas logged all 90 minutes in the field. Center back Casillas anchored the defense with goalkeeper Angel Joaquin.
Joaquin was credited with two saves, including stopping a ground ball free kick in the opening minutes of the match.
Other notables include the first career starts for Joey Alvarez and Jaycob Walker.
An intense match saw seven cards issued. Andres Alonso was shown the red card in the 43rd minute.
Thursday's match marked the first ever between UC Merced and Stanton.
The Bobcats return to the pitch on Sunday to take on Cal State Monterey Bay in Seaside, Calif. First touch from Cardinale Stadium is scheduled for 5:00pm.
