Ceres High’s varsity boys soccer program tied Johansen and Beyer during the second week of Western Athletic Conference play.

“They’re two of the toughest teams in league,” said Gilbert Zamora, first-year head coach of the Bulldogs. “We expected that from them.”

Ceres High erased a two-goal deficit on its way to tying Johansen 2-2 on Dec. 20 at CUSD Stadium.

The Bulldogs improved to 4-3-2 on the season and 1-0-2 in the WAC standings.

“They had their chances,” Zamora said. “We had our chances. It was really competitive. It could have gone either way.”

Ceres High goalkeeper Porfirio Rodriguez made eight saves against Johansen.

 “He’s one of the reasons we didn’t lose,” Zamora said. “He made some good stops. We have to give him credit.”

Hassiel Ruiz and Luis Yepez both scored one goal for the Bulldogs.

Andres Madriz had one assist.

Ceres High outscored Johansen 2-0 during the second half to complete the comeback.

“The little bit of chances we had to score, we took advantage,” Zamora said. “We didn’t make any mistakes defensively.”

Ceres High attempted 17 shots during its 1-1 draw with Beyer on Dec. 18 at CUSD Stadium.

“We’re not being accurate when it comes to finishing,” Zamora said. “That’s something we need to work on.” 

Hugo Mercado accounted for Ceres High’s goal.

Rodriguez had one save.

Johansen, Ceres High and Beyer placed first, second and third, respectively, in the 2018-19 WAC standings. The Bulldogs claimed the Sac-Joaquin Section Division-III championship en route to posting a program-best 20-2-4 overall record.

“It’s a different year,” said Zamora, an assistant coach with Ceres High a season ago. “We’re not at the same level as last year’s team. But we can get there.”