Ventura County FC Rallies Past Real Monarchs in 3–1 Comeback Victory
Photos by Angel Figueroa
THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. — Ventura County FC erased a halftime deficit with three unanswered second-half goals to earn a convincing 3–1 victory over Real Monarchs on Saturday night at William Rolland Stadium, extending the club's strong run of form in MLS NEXT Pro.
The opening 45 minutes featured chances at both ends, but it was the visitors who struck first. Just before halftime, Jesús Barea finished off a quick transition to give Real Monarchs a 1–0 lead, sending Ventura County into the break trailing despite creating several promising opportunities.
Ventura County wasted little time responding after the restart. In the 51st minute, Vicente Garcia brought the hosts level, finishing a well-worked move after being set up by Julian Placias. The equalizer shifted the momentum firmly in Ventura County's favor as the home side began controlling possession and creating consistent pressure in the attacking third.
The breakthrough came in the 71st minute when Julian Placias capped off another attacking sequence, converting a pass from Sebastian Hernandez to put Ventura County ahead for the first time. With the Monarchs pushing numbers forward in search of another equalizer, Ventura County remained composed defensively while looking dangerous on the counterattack.
The result was put beyond doubt in the 83rd minute as Enrique Martinez found the back of the net after an assist from Gabriel Arnold, sealing a dominant second-half comeback and all three points for Ventura County.
The victory moves Ventura County FC further up the Western Conference standings and continues the team's positive momentum as it enters the second half of the MLS NEXT Pro season. Showing resilience after falling behind, Ventura County displayed the attacking depth and composure that have become hallmarks of its recent performances.
With consecutive victories now secured, Ventura County FC will look to carry its confidence into its next league fixture as it continues its push toward the top of the conference.
