In the opening matches against Columbus High School, MSMS Frazer and Goen teams ended with draws of 1-1 and 2-2, respectively, on Nov. 5.
Juniors Tenea Smith and Isabel Beckman scored both points for Goen. Beckman also assisted on Smith’s goal.
Senior Daniel Van scored Frazer’s goal around the 20th minute of the game.
Both teams started out slowly, adjusting to the game speed and size of the pitch. Neither team had played or practiced on a regulation pitch before this game. Frazer captain and senior Drew Dowdy said the regulation pitch played a role in the early stalemate.
“Preparing for our season has been a little rough,” Dowdy said. “We are practicing on only half of a field, which can make practicing formations a little bit of a struggle.”
Around the 20-minute mark, the Frazer team gained momentum through crosses that created shots on goal. One of these opportunities came to fruition, and MSMS led 1-0.
The game remained neck and neck for the rest of the first half and into the second. With 10 minutes left in the game, a Columbus player split the Frazer defense and tied the match. The Blue Waves responded with a last-minute offensive push; however, they didn’t manage to convert.
Dowdy said the last-minute defensive lapse was demoralizing, but the game was a great learning experience for the team.
“I think we were playing a little complacent, even with only being up one. I was really proud of the performance of our team, especially the defense,” Dowdy said. “There are a few systematic things we need to work out in practice, but I see the potential for a really great team.”
Goen’s team had a similar experience to Frazer in preparing for the match. Without a full-size field or enough players for a scrimmage, the Blue Waves were limited to simple dribbling and passing drills.
Goen’s first goal of the game came from Beckman, who was able to capitalize on an empty net.
“I was dribbling toward the goal and the goalie stepped out. As soon as she came out, it opened a shot for me,” Beckman said.
A second goal came later in the game from Smith, who was able to touch one in off a Beckman pass. Columbus quickly responded with a goal on its own to make it a 2-1 MSMS lead, but a handball call against the Blue Waves led to the tying penalty kick for Columbus.
Despite giving up a lead, Beckman said spirits were still high among the Goen soccer team.
“People are not discouraged that they lost, because they didn’t lose. Everyone is coming up with ways to improve our game,” Beckman said.
MSMS will face Nettleton at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday [Nov. 12].
