The end (and beginning) of a long week

The Knights went into Friday's game against Caroline thankful that they had the school day off, but during soccer season, there is no day off.  JV went into the game with only 11 healthy players, and that proved to be decisive factor in the loss to Caroline.  Caroline's goal came with about 3 minutes left to play, and proved to be the difference in a 1-0 loss.  JV played extremely hard in the heat of the late afternoon, and had no subs to give them a break.  Unfortunately, the team ran out of steam at the end, but JV played very well and have nothing to hang their heads about.  Remember, they still have to come to our house!

Varsity played a very physical game, with several instances of shoving and fouling happening on both sides.  Unfortunately, only one team got calls made against them: us.  That didn't stop the team from completely dominating time of possession, getting several crosses in the first half and just missing scoring chances.  SHS finally broke through in the second half with Raven Bruce's first two Varsity goals, both on assists from Nikki Donnelly.  Aldinger and Sullivan each made great runs into the offensive set, and Luttrell and Aggy kept the offensive sets moving.  Floyd unleashed what had to be a 60-yard punt while being fouled, and when given the kick after a penalty was finally called on Caroline, she proceeded to kick the ball 60 yards again.  With some of the starters nursing injuries, several players came off of the bench to play significant roles in the second half, adding their take on the physical tone of the game:  Tiffany Hare and Kaytie O. came in to "lay down the law."  Katie Brewer amused the team with her attempts to lose a defender on corners, but perhaps no one played a better game than Lauren Stewart.  Making her first start of the season, Stewart made 3 saves to earn the shutout victory, and came out on several other plays to make sure that Caroline would not get a decent shot on goal.  Game ball to Stewart for her play!

With four games next week, it is vital that the team continue to support each other and play with energy and effort.  With both teams playing .500 soccer, the playoffs are looking sweeter with each game!  Go Knights!