East Aurora Boys Soccer Team Reaches Historic State Championship

ROCKFORD — On Friday night, Denzel Martinez was supported by his East Aurora teammates as he coped with hip pain and fatigue. His efforts were not in vain. Martinez played a key role in helping the Tomcats make history and move within one win of their first boys soccer state title.

“This feels great,” Martinez expressed. “We’re making history. Nobody else has done this. It makes me happy.”

Martinez, a sophomore midfielder, scored the game-tying goal in regulation. East Aurora then secured a 4-2 victory in the penalty-kick shootout against Evanston in the Class 3A state semifinals held at Rockford Guilford. East Aurora (15-6-3) had already achieved their first state trophy and will compete for the championship title on Saturday at 7 p.m. Against either Lockport or Glenbrook South.

Carlos Fabela made an impressive four saves during regulation and an additional two during the shootout. Emanuel Rodriguez, Edgard Junez, Miguel Diaz, and Jerry Hernandez were successful in the penalty kicks. Hernandez sealed the match and celebrated with fans.

“I was pretty nervous, but I aimed for the left side of the net,” Hernandez admitted. “I scored and it felt unreal. I enjoyed that moment with our crowd.”

Matthew Gilroy scored for Evanston (15-7-1) in the 22nd minute, holding a lead until East Aurora’s equalizer came. The decisive goal came with 14 minutes left in regulation through a well-executed play. Aldahir Heredia’s back-heel pass to Jeremie Bititi set up Martinez’s shot from 15 yards.

“It was a good team play,” Martinez noted. “I couldn’t have scored without my teammates. We kept pushing for the goal and we made it happen.”

This marked Martinez’s fifth goal of the season, ranking second in team scoring. As a sophomore, he embraced the challenge of playing at a higher level. “I’ve played with older players before, but this is different,” he shared. “I have to work hard for my team.”

Hernandez spoke highly of Martinez’s performance. “I played with him last year. He’s always been one of the best,” Hernandez said. “He deserved this moment.”

Previously, East Aurora struggled with a 5-12-5 record last season, without a regional win since 2012 and no sectional victories. They now find themselves in the state championship game.

East Aurora coach Nathan Parry reflected on their journey. “The supersectional win on Tuesday was great, but this might top it,” Parry stated. “Our community support has been incredible.”

During the match, Carlos Fabela showcased his skills by blocking pivotal penalties, playing a significant role in the victory. Now, the senior players look forward to concluding their high school careers in a state championship.

“As seniors, we knew the season was ending, one way or another,” Fabela explained. “We prefer ending it in the best way possible. We’re giving it our all.”