6th/7th graders shutout in first loss

The 6th/7th graders laid an egg against the top team in the division Saturday afternoon as they were shutout for the first time all season in a 4-0 loss.

After their best game two weeks ago, the boys have had two straight weeks where they left the soccer pitch at West Sunset disappointed, tying 2-2 last week and then getting blanked on Saturday.

From the start, they were not ready to play as the other team headed in a corner kick just minutes into the game. The defense stood around and the other team crept in easily and put a nice head onto the ball, and into the net past Oscar, who was making the start in goal.

The other team added another goal before halftime to make it 2-0.

From top to bottom, it was an all around bad day as the scorers couldn't score, the defenders couldn't defend.

They had a few good opportunities including one in the first half when Alan just missed on connecting for a goal that would've cut the deficit in half.

In the 3rd quarter, they had a golden chance to put it in the net, but instead failed to capitalize  The play went the other way and the first place team didn't squander their opportunity, scoring their third goal of the game, which pretty much sealed the 6th/7th grade's fate.

Another goal on a corner kick in the fourth rounded out the scoring.

There were no real bright spots on this day, as the 6th/7th graders had a first hand look at the best team in the division.

Coming into the game, they knew they were playing the first place team and in ways it messed with their psyche, as they looked a little more timid than usual.

With two games left in the season, they still control their own destiny to make the playoffs. Winning out will guarantee them a post-season spot.

But at this point, there are no guarantees with their play because they have looked sluggish in the last six quarters.

The other team was able to move the ball under control and put the ball where they want to -- the 6th/7th graders did not.

Too many times when nobody was within a St. Mary's player, the pass or shot was rushed, or not taken at all. It was a little bit of a flashback to how the team played in the last few years where they just tried to boot the ball as far as they could.

Against a solid opponent, they needed to be crisp in the passing game and execute at a higher level.

They didn't Saturday and it should serve as a wake up call at what needs to be done the rest of the way if they want to make a serious run in the playoffs.