The Glendale College Vaqueros continued their strong start to the 2025 season with a commanding 2-0 victory over East Los Angeles College Friday night at Sartoris Field. Behind a stellar defensive effort and a brilliant performance from sophomore forward Armen Kozanian, the Vaqueros improved to 3-1-3 on the season.
After a scoreless first half in which both teams traded chances but couldn't break through, Glendale turned up the pressure in the final 45 minutes. Kozanian broke the deadlock in the 70th minute, blasting home an unassisted goal to give the Vaqueros a 1-0 lead. He followed it up just over ten minutes later with his second goal of the night — this time finishing a sharp pass from Michael Malolepszy, who earned the assist.
Kozanian was unstoppable in the final third, registering 5 shots on goal from 5 total attempts and showing clinical finishing in key moments. With the brace, he now leads the Vaqueros in goals this season.
Malolepszy played a key role in midfield, not only contributing the assist but also generating 2 shots on goal, while maintaining composure under pressure. He did pick up a yellow card late, but his influence on both ends was clear throughout the match.
In goal, Arvin Navasartian was flawless, recording 7 saves en route to the clean sheet. His positioning and calm command of the back line helped Glendale weather early East LA pressure, particularly in the first half when the Huskies tallied 7 shots.
Defensively, the Vaqueros were disciplined and organized. Erik Amirkhanyan and Narek Naghdalyan each contributed with smart distribution and composure, while the back four held East LA to just 5 shots on goal in the second half.
The Vaqueros matched East LA in physicality, finishing with 7 fouls compared to the Huskies' 9, but kept their shape and discipline intact.
Both teams ended the night even on corner kicks (3 each), but it was Glendale who made their opportunities count, putting 11 of their 14 shots on frame and converting twice.
Glendale will look to build on this momentum heading into Western State Conference action on Friday.
Final Score: Glendale 2, East Los Angeles 0
Record: Glendale (3-1-3), East LA (3-2-3)
Location: Sartoris Field, Glendale, CA
Attendance: Closed match (no attendance)
Game Length: 1:51