Justin nets team's first goal to close out season

The 5th/6th grade soccer team after their best game of the year.

It took seven games and three quarters, but finally, the 5th/6th graders broke through.

A little into the fourth quarter, Justin capitalized on the team's many opportunities today, intercepted a goalie's throw, and scored the team's first goal of the season.

The team finished the year, losing 4-1, but did it with only ten players in uniform. Without Aaron, one of their top offensive threats, they were unable to cash in on the many chances they had throughout the game.

The 5th/6th graders had control of the ball in the offensive zone for the better part of the game, but missed shot after shot from quarters one through three.

After a scoreless first quarter, they gave up two goals that shouldn't have been. One caromed of a defender past Daniel, and another one was a result of an erroneous clearing pass that found the foot of the other team right in front of Daniel. They trailed at halftime 2-0.

For a team that has gone through a lot of lows, there was no quit in the ten boys who showed up today. Jason, who just completed his first season, played the best game of this young career and was solid on defense, stealing the ball away from attackers and pushing the ball up field on several plays.

Raymond and Garrick, who were upgraded all of a sudden with Aaron's absence, had several shots inside the box that just went wide of the net.

It was a very positive way to end the season for a team that has had its ups and mainly downs. This morning, they had their focus, they played with courage, grit and determination, something that was inconsistent all season.

But for one game, they showed everyone what could be in the future. That one goal could change the fortunes of a team for years to come.