Girls Soccer vs Holderness 9/29
By: Vir Shrestha
Girls Varsity Soccer played against Holderness and secured their first win of the season, with a 3-0 shutout. With their new-found chemistry, the girl’s midfield and offense were able to improve their teamwork, leading them to a successful home win.
The start of the girl’s season was tough to say the least, as they started off at two away games. For their second home game, the girls made sure to put on a show for the crowd. During practices, they worked on offensive set pieces. Senior Nicole Craighead talked about how they prepared specifically for Holderness. Craighead said, “Holderness was a very fast and aggressive team, so we planned for going in fairly offensively.” Coach Caldwell said, “The team’s aggression and heart was there since day one. Eventually we improved our organization on defense and in the midfield.” Coach Caldwell continued on, “The girls were more aware of the positioning and thus made more consistent, accurate passes.”
The team came in for preseason on September 3rd, and practicing everyday has built up more than just teamwork and aggression. Coach Caldwell has said since the first game, “Our stamina and aggression have improved.”
Lower Kahliya Clayton commented on the support her teammates provide before stressful games. The team commences each home game with a pregame ritual. Kahliya said, “We get hyped pregame in the locker room by blasting music.”
In the actual game, this improved organization helped their offense to be as aggressive as possible. Lower Esme Shields and upper Jaydn Mitchell racked up two goals in the first half alone. Coach Caldwell notes Jaydn’s header came off a wonderful corner kick, which was one of the set pieces the team ran during practices. Coach Caldwell additionally credited the midfield for staying consistently organized through the entire game. Craighead said, “Defender Jenna Sylvestri hit really great long balls, helping the transition from defense to attack.” The team’s sturdy defense was able to maintain a clean sheet.
The atmosphere at home furthermore contributed to the girl’s triumphant win. Coach Caldwell said that playing on the stadium turf is always a joy. Craighead loves the energy in the stadium, stating, “We love all the support we get, it really does motivate us to play harder.” Not only was the energy up, Clayton said, “It is relaxing because the field is familiar and no travel is involved. This free time gives me time to prepare and stretch out for the game better.” She also vividly remembered the Big Red Zone, along with their posters and matching maroon attire.
The team hopes to continue this enthusiasm to all future games. Coach Caldwell emphasized the importance of the team’s persistent passion and intensity. She said “Above all, we strive to put in 110 percent effort.” With this mentality, the girls intend to keep on working on their finishing and midfield’s aggressiveness.
Clayton concluded, “This game was our first win of the season so it was a highlight in all.” Girls varsity soccer is proud of the hard fought win. They intend to carry their continual passion and effort into future games.
