7th/8th grade soccer teams breaks through, nets first win

The 7th/8th grade soccer team dug deep and showed everybody that they are capable of not only competing in this tough division, but winning as well.

After four winnable games that resulted in losses to start the season, the boys broke through Saturday at West Sunset with an exciting 2-1 victory against the previously undefeated top team in the league.

After struggling in net to start the season, Garrick was moved onto the field where he made his presence felt in the first 12 minutes of the game.

He had a nice shot on goal just minutes into the game, and then became Joe Thornton, setting up the game's first goal.

Off Joseph's throw-in, Garrick sped down the sideline and turned the corner towards the net. He then sent a ball through the box right to Jackie who banged in the first goal of his career to make it 1-0.

Tied at 1-1 in the 4th quarter, Garrick broke towards the net after getting the inside position on a defender. As he was about to take another dribble, he was tripped up in the box and a foul was called. The 7th/8th graders were awarded a penalty kick.

Alan got the call for the shot and didn't miss, scoring his third goal of the year, which was the game winner.

Ironically, the 7t/8th graders escaped a penalty kick in the 1st quarter when Tyler tripped up an opposing player in the box, leading to a PK for the other team. Luckily, his kick went off the post and the game remained 0-0.

Defensively, the team held strong and did a great job containing the other team's attackers. Not only were they fast, but also a very physical bunch. The only goal came in the firs half when the defense couldn't clear a free kick, which saw the ball come right in front of the goal mouth. 

Thomas, who started his first game in goal this season, gave up just that one goal, and all signs point to him starting in net again next week.

This was a much needed win for a team that felt like they gave away games to start the season. With a win under their belt, they should be more confident and look to keep the momentum going the rest of the way.

Alfonso suited up and played for the first time in a month, while Raymond was absent from the line-up.

Jackie joins Raymond, Garrick, Joseph and Thomas as St. Mary's 8th graders who have scored a goal in their soccer careers.