On Thursday, Jan. 23, the Archie Williams varsity boys soccer team (3-0-1), faced off against the San Marin Mustangs (5-3-3) in a spirited battle. The game took place at the Falcons’ Redhill field, in a late afternoon match-up. Throughout the game, the Falcons demonstrated dually strong offensive and defensive power, resulting in a 6-0 win.
“I thought that our defense did a great job of communicating and keeping the ball in front of them,” said head coach Rene Ayala. “Getting a shutout in soccer is really hard too, so to not let the other team score was really key for us.”
Senior forward Willy Finley scored the first goal of the game, assisted by junior forward Sean Chamberlin, giving the team the confidence boost needed to take the win. By the ten-minute mark, Sean scored the second goal of the game assisted by Willy, the duo exhibiting strong footwork and collaborating as a team.
The Falcons displayed impressive teamwork throughout the game, working to score and defend their goal. Willy contributed to the team’s offensive efforts, while working hard with his teammates to seal the win.
“Sean and I had some connections. We combined a couple times, and I think just [by] playing with him throughout the season, we’ve been gaining more and more trust and chemistry. I think today we performed pretty well together,” Willy said.
Throughout the first half, the Falcons dominated, with senior midfielder Jake Morrison scoring another goal. Their passes remained consistent, dribbling up and through the Mustangs’ defense, with more shots on goal before halftime. The second half started with the Falcons in control of the ball. Two shots were taken and missed before Willy scored the fourth goal of the game.
As Falcons defenders continued to intercept passes and crosses, their offense worked together seamlessly, communicating and moving forward as a team with strong contributions from senior midfielder Jackson Richardson.
“I would describe it [the team’s chemistry] as very strong and connected, because it’s a whole family and it starts off the field and shows on the field,” Jackson said.
After a throw in by senior defender Nolan Kriessman, sophomore Devin Singh shot and scored, eliciting celebrations from his supportive teammates. Up by five, the Falcons pressed even harder, earning a free kick and a corner, leading to a final goal by Jackson. The Mustangs never got a chance to respond, as the Falcons continued their offensive dominance through the final whistle.
The Falcons improved their MCAL record to 3-0-1, and they now turn their attention to their next league opponent, the Novato High School Hornets. The game will take place at the Redhill field, Monday, Jan. 27, at 3:15 p.m.
