The game started with both teams trying to manage an attack. Both teams defenses dominated and pretty much shut down any offensive attacks by either team. The half was full of tackles and steals while neither team was able to mount much of anything threatening. The first half ended up with the score being Falcons 0 to the Pirates 0 with the only shot on goal coming from a lady Pirate.

At halftime we coached our Falcons to play with more energy and demanded we put shots on the Pirates goal. The second half was played fairly similar to the first half with both sides not gaining much advantage on offense. Falcon freshman Emmy Koflanovich was able to put three hard shots on the Pirate goal but their goalkeeper defended the shots. The game finally ended with the score being Falcons 0 to the Pirates 0. Our Falcons were able to put 3 shots on goal while the Pirates put 1 more shot on goal.

Our goalkeeping was played superbly by senior captain Emily Johnson. Emily stood strong in goal and showed her quickness, decision making, agile feet, sure hands and strong kicks. Emily had a very good game and was crucial to why we shut out the Pirates.

Our young defense also played very well. The unit of defenders played solid, confident and made few mistakes. The defense was led by junior Darby McFall, junior co-captain Megan Keating, freshman Mary Lonhart and freshman Desiree Rakela. Our defenders are growing each game and showing that they can shut down the oppositions attacks.

Our outside midfielders had a good game while working with energy and effort. The midfielders were led by sophomore Taylor Raymond, freshman Allie Carl and freshman Mikaela Inman.

Our inside midfielders were relentless and are the strong part of our team. Our inside midfielders play tough, hard and smart soccer. The inside midfielders are led by senior captain Madison Black, freshman Emmy Koflanovich, freshman Marissa Sion and junior Melinda Lane.

Our Falcon forwards were led by senior captain Jessica DuBridge and freshman Audrey Liebenberg. Our forwards tried to stretch the field and make runs the entire game. Both played well the entire game.

Special recognition goes to Emily Johnson, Emmy Koflanovich, Madison Black and our entire Falcon defense for having a strong outing. Our "Player of the Game" goes to Darby McFall for having an outstanding game at her inside defensive position. Darby's leadership and strong play were evident the entire game.

I would like to thank the lady Pirates for a hard fought soccer game. We continue to develop, understand and respect our strengths and weaknesses. We continue to play young but were getting increasingly confident towards what were all about as a team. Our record for the season now stands at 5 wins, 5 losses and 5 ties while posting a record in the SCCAL at 3 wins, 1 loss and 3 ties. Our next game will be on Thursday, Jan 31st, 3:30 PM at SLV Cougars.