After securing victories against cross town rivals Campo and Miramonte, the 6-3-1 JV girls soccer team returned home on Monday to take on the 6-4-1 Alameda Hornets. Despite controlling the ball for a majority of the game, the game remained tied at 0-0 until the second half when the Dons offense was able to score a couple goals, and the defense held the opponent scoreless for the second consecutive game.
The defense continued its stellar play. Goalie Maria Statkinova had a couple nice saves, including one on a tough shot from distance. Sierra Goyert (#10) found herself in the right place at the right time yet again with a goal saving clear on a ball that got behind Maria. Olivia Kemp (#5) also showed the heart of the team, sacrificing her body in one play where the Hornet player literally tried to run right through her. Olivia Bernier (#11), Ella Culbertson (#3), Helena McGinley (#4), Evelyn Lee (#9), Michaela Barbano (#18) and the rest of the defense and holding midfielders continued to play great defense.
The offense had some opportunities early, but was unable to get on the board. Tatum Walsh (#13) had a great shot on a pass from Caroline Tumilty (#8) that was saved by the Hornet goalie. Grace Colaco (#7) had a great steal and pass to Grace Eppinger for an apparent goal, but was called back for offsides. Mila Ellis (#20) intercepted the ball on a kick from the Hornet goalie, but unfortunately wasn’t able to convert the shot. Later in the game, the Dons were able to score two goals. The first came courtesy of Olivia Kemp (#5) who scored on a shot from distance that the Dons fans didn’t even realize went in until later, and the second was on a goal from Natalie Hamill (#21) who was able to navigate through what looked like a rugby scrum in front of the goal.
I thought I would continue my new year’s resolution of being positive and thankful. I would like to give a shout out to the team for huddling at midfield during the game. I would like to thank James Hammill for taking more amazing pictures (https://go.teamsnap.com/8816872/files/list/5292219), Anna Eppinger for organizing the end of year party at Canyon Club Brewery, Rachel Kemp for organizing a team building event today for the girls to watch the JV Boys soccer game instead of an awkward joint dinner where nobody really mingles, and several people for doing the write-ups while I was out of town (Piper McGinley and Coach Jose did Miramonte, and Frosh team writer Jamie McGinley covered Campo). Speaking of which, I was in Houston for the weekend taking care of my mom and would like to thank Caesar from a local furniture store who sold us an electric recliner I know she will love for years to come.
Get to Know Coach: Coach Jose favorite restaurant is Melos in Pleasant Hill
The girls hit the road to take on Las Lomas at 5pm on Thursday (1/30)
