Stanton Leads Cal Pac Conference

The Stanton Elks wrapped up their Bay Area trip on a high note, taking down the Cal Poly Maritime Keelhaulers 2-0 on Sunday afternoon. It marked what was technically their third Cal Pac match of the season, though their scheduled game against Pacific Union was postponed after facility and essential personnel difficulties forced officials to deem the match unsafe to play.

When the whistle blew to start the match in Vallejo, it was clear the Keelhaulers had one plan—defend deep and hold the line. Maritime parked the proverbial bus, forcing Stanton to break down a crowded back line through patient buildup and persistence. Despite multiple close chances, the first half ended 0-0. But the Elks refused to head back home with a tie.

In the 68th minute, French freshman Lorenzo Jacon finally broke through the congestion, slotting home the opening goal after a perfectly weighted assist from Francesco De Marco. Maritime's frustration began to boil over, and in the 81st minute a foul on Max Hartbaum inside the box awarded Stanton a penalty. De Marco stepped up with confidence and buried the shot, doubling the lead and effectively securing the victory.

It turns out even a parked bus can't stay steady on a hill called Jacon and De Marco.

With the 2-0 win, Stanton remains undefeated in Cal Pac play, having already bested Westcliff earlier in the season. The Elks now return home riding momentum and confidence as they prepare to face Simpson University in their next conference matchup.