Story by Zoe Schlaak
Staff Writer
Photo by Oscar Walsh
Photo Editor
Boys varsity soccer fell short to the Polytechnic Panthers, 2-0, on Tuesday, Dec. 4, in its first preseason game.
The Panthers dominated possession in the first half and the Tigers fell into an early two goal deficit. In the second half, South Pas began to find its footing, but was unable to convert on any chances.
From the start, the Tigers could barely maintain possession of the ball and played defensively. Junior co-captain Reo Snyder defended his ground with aggressive interceptions and blocks.
Senior co-captain Ian McLane made crucial stops, keeping Polytechnic away from the goal. Even junior striker Caleb Lee became a vital piece of the defensive puzzle, tracking back to aid the Tiger back line. However, Polytechnic flew past South Pas and its powerful attack led to two goals in the first half.
In the second half, both sides seemed equally matched. Quick saves from senior goalkeeper Ignacio Quibilian kept Poly from increasing its lead.
As Poly began to lose tire, South Pas pushed the ball up the pitch, but failed to net a goal.
Halfway through the second half, Quibilian collided with an opposing player and sophomore JV keeper Jacob Mills substituted in. Mills held his own in goal and was able to block some powerful strikes, including a series of scrambling back-to-back saves.
The second half ended in a stalemate and the score was finalized as a 2-0 loss for the Tigers.
“It was a tough loss, but we left with some improvements. We played a lot better [in the second half] but the shots and possession weren’t there. One thing we need to work on is our defense and [our] offside trap. Overall, it wasn’t a bad game, we just got unlucky and didn’t finish our chances,” Snyder said.
South Pas will play Rancho Christian in the San Gabriel Valley Cup on Friday, Dec. 6, at Maranatha High School.