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San Luis Today
By the People, for the People
Sidewinders Fall Short in Championship Heartbreaker
San Luis boys soccer team loses 2-1 in extra time to Liberty Lions
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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The San Luis Sidewinders boys soccer team made their third championship game appearance in four years, but fell short once again, losing 2-1 in extra time to the Liberty Lions. Gio Ortega scored a single-season record 25th goal to give the Sidewinders the lead, but the Lions equalized late and then scored the winner early in overtime.
Why it matters
The Sidewinders have become a perennial powerhouse in Arizona high school soccer, but have yet to capture the elusive state championship. This latest defeat in the title game continues to raise questions about whether the team can finally break through and win it all.
The details
The Sidewinders dominated possession and chances, but were only able to convert one of their 10 shots on goal. The Lions scored on two of their three chances, including the game-tying goal late in regulation and the overtime winner just minutes into the extra period.
- The Sidewinders took a 1-0 lead in the second half on Gio Ortega's 25th goal of the season, a new single-season record.
- The Liberty Lions equalized late in the second half to send the game to overtime.
- The Lions scored the game-winning goal just minutes into the extra period to claim the championship.
The players
Gio Ortega
A standout forward for the San Luis Sidewinders who set a new single-season scoring record with 25 goals.
Jesus Rojas
The head coach of the San Luis Sidewinders, who has led the team to three championship games in the last four seasons.
Liberty Lions
The opposing team that defeated the Sidewinders 2-1 in overtime to win the state championship.
What they’re saying
“It was a great game. We dominated. We had the most chances.”
— Jesus Rojas, Head Coach, San Luis Sidewinders (KYMA)
“They had three [chances]. They scored two. We had 10. We scored one. That's how soccer is, unfortunately... I'm very proud of the kids. They played amazing.”
— Jesus Rojas, Head Coach, San Luis Sidewinders (KYMA)
What’s next
With 17 seniors graduating, the Sidewinders will have a vastly different roster next season, but head coach Jesus Rojas is confident they will field another title contender.
The takeaway
The Sidewinders' heartbreaking loss in the championship game continues a trend of near-misses, raising questions about whether the team can finally break through and win the elusive state title. However, the program's consistent success and strong coaching suggest they will remain a force to be reckoned with in Arizona high school soccer.
