On Tuesday, Jan. 14, the Archie Williams girls varsity soccer team faced the Branson School Bulls in a high-energy match. Despite the cold afternoon weather, both teams came prepared to give it their all, with the Falcons fighting hard but falling short with a 0-6 loss. The energy remained high, but Branson’s pressure proved to be too strong, leaving the Falcons with a 0-2 league record. 

The game started with both teams showcasing strong moves on offense and defense. Branson’s intensity led to a corner kick, which Archie Williams junior goalkeeper Gigi Richer successfully blocked. Despite this early pressure, the Falcons stood strong and pushed back against Branson’s momentum, showing striking attacks. 

The Bulls scored the game’s first goal in the 18th minute of the first half, after several back-and-forth plays, sparking an aggressive push toward the Falcons’ defense. The Falcons responded quickly with strong communication and defensive stops, with Gigi making more critical saves. Just before the end of the first half, Branson added another goal, leading 0-2 as the teams went into the halftime break. 

“It was a tough game, but the captains, seniors, and team kept the energy high. We never gave up, even at the end, and hopefully, we’ll get a rematch at NCS,” said senior midfielder Mari Rode.

In the 27th minute of the first half, Falcons sophomore winger Petra Betti suffered an unfortunate knee injury, but the team remained focused despite the setback. Gigi kept the spirits high with several key saves during the minutes following. The Falcons remained determined and controlled and continued to work together, but Branson continued to pull ahead.

“I think we’re all disappointed in how we played, and we need to work on playing for each other and working as a team,” Petra said. 

The second half began with Branson finding a strong rhythm, adding three more goals to lead 0-5 by the 30th minute of the second half. Despite the score, the Falcons attempted to remain strong, with Gigi making more crucial saves and the team showing consistency on both ends of the field. The Falcons continued to keep their heads held high, refusing to back down. 

“I think we had very good moments that I wish we would have [taken advantage of] a little bit more. We also had very unfortunate moments that ended up affecting a large part of the game,” said Archie Williams girls varsity soccer head coach Pernille Kelm.

Sophomore Gabi Rode and senior Phoebe Morf each attempted impressive shots on goal, but Branson scored one more goal before the game’s close. Although the Falcons lost 0-6, they remain determined to continue their Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) season and look forward to improving on their way to the North Coast Section (NCS). The Falcons prepare for their next matchup against the Terra Linda High School Trojans on Wednesday, Jan. 22, at 3:15 p.m.