Stanton (CA) SU Elks rallied to defeat Hope International Royals men’s soccer 4-3 on September 15, 2026, at OC Great Park in Irvine, California, completing a comeback capped by Álvaro Florín’s late hat trick goal.
The Royals held a 3-1 lead in the second half after two goals from Erick Cabrera, marking his first scores of the season, and a goal from Roberto Estrada, also his first of the year. Hope International adjusted its lineup at halftime, resulting in improved offensive pressure early in the second half.
However, Stanton surged in the final 23 minutes, scoring three goals to level the match at 3-3. Álvaro Florín secured the victory with his third goal exactly one minute before the final whistle, preserving Stanton’s unbeaten 8-0-1 record. Hope International fell to 3-1-2 overall.
Tyler Beehler guarded the net for Hope International in the first half, making six saves before goalkeeper Wyatt Schaap took over in the second half. The match intensified late with four yellow cards issued, and both Stanton’s Daniel Apata Ayensa and Hope International’s Allan Gonzalez received red cards following a postgame altercation.
Hope International will return to GSAC play hosting The Master’s on Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at OC Great Park Stadium.
CSB Take
This game showcased Hope International’s offensive potential with multiple players scoring season-first goals. However, their inability to maintain a two-goal lead highlights challenges in defensive consistency and stamina late in games. Addressing these issues will be critical for the Royals as they prepare for upcoming conference matchups.
Source: Original report
