The game may not have started on time, but the Acalanes girls made sure the energy never lagged. With a 30-minute delay while waiting for a third referee to arrive, the team stayed loose and entertained themselves with a lively game of “down by the banks.” By the time the whistle finally blew, the Dons were warmed up, focused, and more than ready to get after it.
Once underway, the matchup with College Park lived up to expectations. The first half was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading goals and momentum. By halftime, Acalanes had carved out a narrow 6–5 lead, setting the stage for a decisive stretch.
The third quarter is where the Dons made their move. Turning up the pressure on both ends, Acalanes extended the lead to 10–6. One standout moment—and perhaps the spark that ignited the surge—came when Grace Colaco delivered a perfectly timed midfield check, scooped up the loose ball, and helped drive a fast break that ended in a goal. That sequence brought energy to the sideline and gave the Dons a cushion they wouldn’t relinquish.
In the fourth quarter, Acalanes showed composure, controlling possession and managing the clock to hold off a late push from College Park, ultimately sealing the 10–8 victory.
Offensively, Emily Roberts led the charge with three goals. Grace Colaco and Kelly Reidenbach each added two, while Christina Hageboeck, Reese Imrie, and Kate Beaver contributed one apiece. Colaco also dished out three assists, with Charlotte Gellman and Hageboeck each recording one.
Possession proved critical, and the Dons delivered on ground balls. Reese Tierney and Julia Lyons led the effort with three each, while Emily Roberts and Grace Colaco collected two apiece. Charlotte Gellman, Reese Imrie, and Kelly Reidenbach each added one to the tally.
Defensively, Reese Tierney, Kate Uffleman, Julia Lyons, and Grace Eppinger put in a relentless shift, keeping the Falcons in check throughout the game. In goal, Sarah Hession stood tall with five impressive saves to anchor the defense.
All in all, a strong and well-earned win for the Dons—who proved they can handle delays, pressure, and everything in between.
Next up: Acalanes returns home Tuesday night to face Piedmont at 7 p.m.
