The Pahrump Valley High School boys’ varsity soccer team showcased its best form of the season on Tuesday, September 30, defeating the Boulder City Eagles 3-0 at home. From the opening whistle, the Trojans controlled possession and created consistent scoring chances, reflecting the confidence and chemistry that have been building throughout their season.
Early on, Pahrump kept pressure on Boulder City’s defense, with multiple shots from TC Hone, Rafael “Rafa” Sanchez, and others testing the Eagles’ keeper. A handball at the penalty marker gave the Trojans an early opportunity to score, but the shot was blocked. The team continued to push forward, and their persistence paid off around the 30-minute mark when Ryan Nunez Manzo intercepted a pass back to Boulder’s goalkeeper and connected with Roberto “Berto” Gonzalez-Gonzalez, who finished cleanly to put the Trojans ahead 1-0.
The Trojans maintained that momentum through the half, keeping the ball deep in Boulder’s territory and forcing the Eagles to stay on defense. Pahrump’s defense, anchored by goalkeeper Cayden Cowley, was sharp when called upon, including a key penalty save in the final minutes of the first half that preserved the 1-0 lead.
In the second half, Boulder City tried to adjust by pushing more players forward, but the Trojans’ back line remained composed. “They went from having four in the back to more of a three or even two,” said Head Coach Andrew Norton. “They pushed men up to try to get a goal, but we had moved Henry Nunez Manzo back to center back last week, and he’s one of the strongest, fastest players in the league. I wasn’t too worried—he can keep up with just about anybody.”
That confidence proved justified as Pahrump extended its lead late in the match. Randall Pangilinan and Rafa—both coming off the bench—connected beautifully for the second goal, with Randall assisting Rafa’s strike from close range to make it 2-0. “It was sub to sub for the goal,” Norton said proudly. “Rafa had just gone in about a minute and a half before he scored.”
Moments later, TC drew a foul near the right corner after being pushed down by a Boulder defender, who received a yellow card for the play. The Trojans capitalized once again, as Ryan Nunez Manzo buried the ensuing penalty kick to seal the 3-0 win.
Coach Norton praised his team’s composure once they found breathing room on the scoreboard. “We told them at practice that once they go up by two goals, they finally calm down,” he explained. “As soon as we went up two goals, we got that third one. If we had played another five minutes, we probably would’ve scored again—they just relaxed and played their game.”
The victory marked an important step forward in league standings. “That should move us to fourth,” Norton said. “If we can beat Moapa next Monday, we could even go third. Either way, third or fourth gets us into our first playoff game, which will be nice.”
With growing confidence, a solid defensive unit, and a balanced offensive attack, the Trojans continue to prove they can compete with anyone in their division.
