The Cerritos men’s soccer team was triumphant on penalty kicks after their clash with Hartnell College ended 2-2 after regulation.

With the win on Saturday, the Falcons advance to Sunday’s championship game of the Hartnell Tournament against Fresno College.

Coach Benny Artiaga’s men found themselves in an unusual position at the half, trailing for the first time this season 2-0.

Goals by Juan Mejia and Alexis Burguete were enough to send the game to penalties, where Cerritos converted all attempts to beat the Panthers 4-2.

Cerritos suffered early on from an uncharacteristically slow start. It took the tournament hosts only 8 minutes to take advantage and go ahead in the match.

They were able to double its lead before the break. With a two goal cushion, Hartnell bunkered down in their own half to try and thwart the Falcons’ attack.

In the 65th minute, midfielder Mejia brought Cerritos back into the game when he scored off a Cesar Castillo assist. With less than 10 minutes remaining, Luis Gonzalez found Burguete for the equalizer.

“The team showed a lot of character today,” commented Artiaga. “This was our first test and a good gut check. We knew it would take a lot of work and patience to come back.”

“We’re happy to move on, but it’s a damp mood for us. We expect to win every game, so we know there are some things that we need to iron out for tomorrow.”

With Saturday’s victory, the Falcons earned a spot in Sunday’s championship game. They will match up against Fresno City College on Sunday at 2 p.m.?