Boulder Soccer Edges Fairview 2-1 in Rivalry Showdown

On a perfect fall evening, Boulder Soccer took down Fairview 2-1 at Christian Recht Field, delivering another thrilling chapter in one of the state's fiercest high school rivalries. In front of 800+ fans, this was more than just a soccer game—this was Boulder's answer to Ohio State vs. Michigan, Yankees vs. Red Sox, Army vs. Navy. The annual Boulder vs. Fairview match-up once again lived up to the hype.

Both teams came in with strong records: Boulder at 7-0-1 and Fairview at 5-1-3. But when it comes to this rivalry, records mean little. These players know each other well, with many sharing the same club teams in the off-season. But when the whistle blew, all that mattered was the game in front of them—and it didn't disappoint.

The Game Begins

Boulder, following their trademark pre-game bridge run through a tunnel of Boulder Cheer and Poms, wasted no time in setting the tone. Their high press, which has caused problems for opponents all season, was in full force. The Panthers dominated possession early, pushing the ball out of the back, circulating in the midfield, and driving forward with intent.

Fairview's approach was to bypass the middle, playing long balls down the flanks and up the middle, searching for a mistake or a fortunate bounce. But the Boulder back line, anchored by Zac Sheinbaum, Devan Lyons, Santiago Martinez Garcia, and Logan Coughlin, snuffed out each attempt, keeping the Knights at bay. Despite the relentless pressure, Boulder couldn't find the breakthrough—though they came close with an early goal ruled out for goalie interference. Fairview keeper Caleb Pearson had a career night, making a string of key saves to keep his side in the game.

The Breakthrough

The breakthrough finally came late in the first half. Senior Joaxin Castruita, in a moment he'll never forget, unleashed a dipping shot that beat Pearson for his first career goal.  He was named Boulder's Player of the Game. The goal added to his family's rich legacy at Boulder, following in the footsteps of his cousin, All-American Omar Castruita. Just two minutes later, senior forward David Bojorquez doubled the lead with a clinical left-footed finish, sliding the ball low into the corner to make it 2-0.

Fairview, not willing to back down, came out with renewed energy in the second half, testing Boulder's resolve. While Boulder continued to generate chances—including a few near misses from point-blank range—the Panthers couldn't extend their lead. Boulder keeper Aden Heath, solid as ever, kept the Knights off the board until the 73rd minute when Fairview was awarded a penalty, which Ben Ortman converted to make it 2-1.

The Finish

The final seven minutes were tense, but Boulder held firm, refusing to let last year's 1-1 draw repeat itself. When the final whistle blew, Panther Nation stormed the field, forming the traditional victory tunnel in celebration—this year's was 80 yards long.

The win cements Boulder's unbeaten record at 8-0-1 and delivers bragging rights in one of the state's premier rivalries. This year's showdown belongs to Boulder.

Final Score: Boulder 2, Fairview 1.

Next up
The Panthers travel to Mountain Range on October 7th, and return to Recht Field against Northglenn on October 9th at 7:00 PM.

Check Out Game Photos