Central Valley's varsity boys soccer team faced what appeared to be an insurmountable two-goal deficit with less than 15 minutes to play during last week's Western Athletic Conference showdown with Pacheco.

The Hawks scored twice in a span of five minutes on their way to salvaging a 2-2 tie with the reigning WAC-champion Panthers on Jan. 16 in Ceres.

"You have to have the same mindset when you're down," Central Valley junior forward Gerardo Flores said. "Not to give up and go 110 percent."

Flores, Joel Arellano, Agustin Gutierrez and Victor Juarez filled major roles while helping the Hawks complete the stunning comeback.

Flores headed Arellano's free kick into the back of the net in the 68th minute.

Gutierrez volleyed in Juarez's corner kick with five minutes to play.

Hawk goalie Erick Martinez totaled seven saves during the game.

"We adjusted our formation and how we were playing," Flores said. "We attacked more and our defense tightened up. We did well under pressure."

Host Central Valley overcame a sluggish start and defeated Patterson 3-0 on Thursday.

Jonathan Garcia tallied two goals.

Isaac Juarez added one article.

Gutierrez, Gilberto Flores and Pedro Amaya all collected one assist.

Martinez made five saves.
The Hawks outscored the Tigers 3-0 after intermission.

"We were more focused in the second half," Gerardo Flores said.

The Hawks improved to 8-3-6 overall and 3-0-2 in the WAC standings.

"I'm pretty satisfied with what we've done so far," Gerardo Flores said. "If we stay focused, we can win the league title. We're also trying to work together to get the section banner. That's what we're chasing. We always talk about it."

Central Valley will play host to crosstown-rival Ceres High on Saturday.

The game will begin at 1:30 p.m.

The Hawks topped the Bulldogs 4-2 earlier this season. Central Valley erased a 1-0 deficit.