Downtown Doral boys’ soccer completes four-year journey to state championship

It took Downtown Doral just four years, but it seemed like a long journey to the top. Downtown Doral erupted in the second half to overtake Boynton Beach Somerset Canyons 5-0 and win the FHSAA Class 3A boys soccer state championship on Saturday at Lake Myrtle Soccer Complex. “I am very proud of the team because we have spent four years working together as a team,” Downtown Doral coach Jonathan Rosas said. “We have been improving all the time, and we really love the game.” Rosas said his team likes to attack with defense, utilizing the wings to put pressure on the opponent. Rosas explained that his defense is really his offense. “Attacking is the most important part of our game,” Rosas said. “But we are a defensive team.” Victor Villalobos scored twice, including the game’s first goal in the first half to stake the Dolphins to a 1-0 lead. Eduardo Jerez had the assist. Villalobos scored again with 27:46 remaining in the game to push the lead to 3-0. Villalobos scored for the fourth consecutive playoff game. “The first one, my teammate gave me a good pass,” Villalobos said. “It gave me confidence and all I had to do was put it in the back of the net. Honestly, before the game, I already knew we were going to win. I just had confidence in the team that we have. All thanks to God for that. The third goal was probably the best goal I have scored for this team.” Downtown Doral (19-1-3) took a 2-0 halftime lead, getting a goal from Edgar Mata with 9:07 remaining in the half. Luca Cianci dished out the assist. Following Villalobos’ second goal, Santiago Ramos and Rodrigo Perez scored in the second half to break the game wide open. Lucas Davila and Jesus Escalona picked up the assists. “It was a nice goal. I liked it,” said Ramos, a senior midfielder. “Everything this team does is because of the coaches. When I scored, the other team kind of looked down.” Downtown Doral senior goalkeeper Hector Marquez posted six saves to go with his shutout. He entered the game with 19 saves on the season. Downtown Doral outshot Somerset Canyons 12-7, including a 7-2 shot advantage in the second half. Downtown Doral advanced to the state title game by beating Cocoa Beach 4-1 on Thursday.