BOYS’ SOCCER PLAYOFF ROUNDUP

Gardena 3, El Camino Real 0--The Conquistadores fell behind early and gave up two second-half goals within a minute in a semifinal at Gardena.

El Camino Real (20-5-5), defending City champion, dictated the action until Gardena scored in the 12th minute after taking advantage of a defensive miscue.

Defender Chris Johnstone of El Camino Real slipped on the ball and fell in front of teammate Matt Emanuel, who was unable to cover Rodolfo Corona, who blasted an unobstructed 20-yard shot into the goal.

The Conquistadores failed to capitalize later in the half when a penalty kick by Tony Sangari sailed wide right after Gardena was called for a hand ball.

A minute later, Sangari’s header floated left of the goal.

With 10 minutes to play, Coach David Hussey of El Camino Real directed three defenders to move to forward in hopes of generating a scoring opportunity. But the strategy backfired and Gardena scored twice more.

“We’re young, but our guys played well,” said Hussey, who will return eight starters next season.

Gardena (15-3-3) plays Roosevelt in the City final at 6 p.m. Saturday at East L.A. College.