The JV girls soccer team has had a busy week so far. On Monday, they played Bishop O’Dowd. On Tuesday, they had a film session followed by a team dinner at Sliver Pizzeria. Then on Wednesday, they hit the road for a long trip to Santa Rosa to take on Maria Carrillo High School Pumas, in a game that featured a full team substitution by the Pumas, including the goalie! Despite a valiant effort, the Dons walked away with a 0-0 tie.

On defense, starting fullbacks Michaela Barbano (#18), Sierra Goyert (#10), Olivia Bernier (#11), and Helena McGinley (#4) along with Freshman goalie goalkeepeer Maria Statnikova (#0) continued their impressive play, holding the Pumas scoreless for the game.  In the second half, Coach Jose remarked that the Dons back line “shut it down”.  Sierra made some awesome plays to get the ball out of harm’s way, and Maria made great saves in the net throughout the game to preserve the tie.

On offense, Tatum Walsh (#13), Mila Ellis (#20), and Maddie Bernstein (#12) started at winger/striker, and Caroline Tumility (#8), Olivia Kemp (#5), and Evelyn Lee (#9) started in the midfield. The best scoring opportunity came early in the game when Caroline narrowly missed a goal on a free kick.

Aliyah Vasquez (#17), Maddie, Evelyn, and Natalie Hamill (#21) also had nice shots in the first half.  The Dons turned on the engines for the last 10 minutes of second half, but unfortunately couldn’t find the back of the net.

Coach Jose summed it up best when he said “Back to the drawing board we go”. Also, quick shout out to our carpool drivers / tiny cheering section of Kim Hamill, Scott Ellis, Jason Lee, and Piper McGinley. Thank you!

Get to Know Coach: Coach Jose’s favorite movie is the Grinch who Stole Christmas.

The team has a break for the Holidays.  Next game is at Clayton Valley Charter on Thursday, January 9 @ 5pm.  Hope everyone has a Happy Holiday!