The American River College men’s soccer team earned a gritty 1-0 win over Yuba College on Friday, thanks to a first-half goal from Carson Steele and a game saving stop by goalkeeper Connor Depew in the closing minutes.

ARC controlled most possession early in the match, pressing high and keeping Yuba in its own half. Their pressure paid off in the 27th minute when Steele pounced on a loose ball outside the penalty area and drove a low shot past the keeper to put the Beavers ahead 1-0.

From there, ARC continued to generate opportunities. Yahir Sanchez and Abdula Ghalib were active in the attack, combining to test Yuba’s back line. In the 68th minute, Sanchez threatened a ball into the box for Steele, whose shot was deflected wide. Ronan Alcala also impressed by helping ARC maintain their grip on possesion.

Yuba fought back late, pushing numbers into the box and nearly scoring the equalizer. In the 88th minute when called upon, Depew made a full-stretched diving save to keep the lead and secure the win.

The final whistle sealed a 1-0 ARC victory, with Steele’s game winning goal and Depew’s heroics making the difference. The Beavers now look to conference play next Saturday where they play at Santa Rosa.