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Rams Close Out Season with Statement Win Over College of the Desert

Rams Close Out Season with Statement Win Over College of the Desert
Box Score
November 4, 2025
Palm Desert, CA
 
The Victor Valley College men's soccer team capped off a remarkable turnaround season with a commanding 3-0 victory over College of the Desert on the road, closing the 2025-26 campaign with a winning record of 9-8-4. This marks a dramatic improvement from last season's 4-14-1 finish — a 125% increase in total wins, showcasing the program's growth under Head Coach Sammy Lara and his dedicated staff.

Final Game Recap: Rams Dominate Desert

From the opening whistle, the Rams controlled the tempo. Sophomore Eric Franco opened the scoring in the 13th minute with an unassisted strike, setting the tone early. In the second half, Anthony Hernandez added a goal in the 84th minute, also unassisted, before Franco sealed the win with his second goal of the match in stoppage time, assisted by Victor Montes.
Defensively, the Rams were impenetrable. Goalkeeper Emmanuel Lopez recorded 9 saves en route to a clean sheet, anchoring a backline that held Desert to 13 shots and no goals.

Season Leaders Shine

The Rams' success this season was driven by standout performances across the roster:
  • Eric Franco led the team with 9 goals and 20 points, starting all 17 games as a defensive anchor and offensive threat.
  • Anthony Hernandez contributed 7 goals and 4 assists, totaling 18 points in 16 appearances.
  • Brandon Zabala added 5 goals and 2 assists, while Alonso Lopez chipped in with 5 goals and 3 assists.
  • Freshman Chris Palacios and Daniel Miralda also made key offensive contributions with 3 and 2 goals respectively.
  • Sophomore goalkeeper Emmanuel Lopez was a cornerstone of the Rams' defense this season. He played in 13 games, starting 10, and consistently kept opponents at bay with clutch saves and calm leadership in goal. His standout performance came in the season finale, where he recorded 9 saves in a shutout win over College of the Desert

Sophomore goalkeeper Emmanuel Lopez was a cornerstone of the Rams' defense this season. He played in 13 games, starting 10, and consistently kept opponents at bay with clutch saves and calm leadership in goal. His standout performance came in the season finale, where he recorded 9 saves in a shutout win over College of the Desert

 
On the defensive end, Cesar Gonzalez and Dominic Castillo provided consistency and leadership, while Lopez and fellow goalkeeper Angel Montero Sanchez combined for strong performances between the posts.

Coach Lara's Vision Realized

Reflecting on the season, Coach Sammy Lara praised his team's resilience and growth:
"This group showed heart, discipline, and a hunger to improve every single day. We didn't just want to be better than last year — we wanted to set a new standard for Rams soccer. I'm proud of every player and coach who helped make that happen."
The Rams' 2025-26 season will be remembered not just for the winning record, but for the culture shift and competitive spirit that emerged. With a strong core of returning players and promising freshmen, the future looks bright for VVC men's soccer.

Stay connected with the Rams through social media. Follow Victor Valley College Athletics on Twitter @vvc_Rams. Check-in with the Rams on Facebook/VVCathletics and on Instagram @vvcathletics.

For tickets to our VVC Home Athletic events, visit our Ticketing Page here.