On Monday, Feb. 2, the Archie Williams boys varsity soccer team had its last home game of the regular season against the Terra Linda High School Trojans. The game marked the Falcons’ senior night, celebrating the seniors before and after the game with speeches and flowers. The Falcons fought through a long, intense game, closing out the score at 3-0 and improving their league record to 4-1-2, leaving them in third place.
The game opened with high intensity, with both teams creating numerous opportunities in front of the goal. The Falcons were able to have multiple shot attempts, but the Trojans’ goalkeeper shut their efforts down. After some time, Terra Linda elevated their game and increased pressure on the Falcons’ defense, but no successful shots could get past senior goalie Aidan Dunn.
“We knew going into this game, Terra Linda was a very tough opponent, so we just had to focus on what we needed to and not worry too much about what they were going to do,” said Head Coach Rene Ayala.
As the first half continued, junior Devin Singh received a pass from junior Henry Miller and put Archie Williams in the lead with a breakaway and a goal. The Falcons kept their pressure consistent and continued to make opportunities up and down the field. The first half ended in Archie Williams’ favor as they maintained a 1-0 lead and appeared to be in total control.
The second half began with quick possession by Terra Linda, passing it all the way back to their centerback. Junior Hayden Bremer helped the team with continual stops, creating multiple opportunities up the field. As the game progressed, both teams continued to fight for control of the ball until senior Leo Grandmaison furthered the Falcons’ lead with a shot from the right side.
“We had a really strong senior night because we came out there with a lot of energy and a lot of passion, and all the seniors played great, so it was just an all-around great team success,” Hayden said.
As the second half came to a close, the Falcons’ defense held strong, and senior Sean Chamberlin finished the game with a strong header assisted by Leo. The final whistle blew in favor of the Falcons as they won 3-0.
Archie Williams celebrated their success by honoring their seniors and giving words of gratitude to the people who have supported them. Leo emphasized the importance of a closely-knit team when it comes to succeeding throughout the season.
“I have been part of a lot of teams, and something really unique about this team is every night before gameday we all meet up and have dinner together at someone’s house, and it really just shows how this team succeeds in bonding off the field as well and how we have a brotherhood here,” Leo said.
The seniors also set an example for the younger players and upcoming students. Ayala explains that their actions on and off the field continue the legacy and team culture.
“On this team, I think the seniors’ role is very special. They are responsible for preserving the culture that has been built over the years, over the decades, and to inspire those that follow them to follow their legacy, and that is something we are very explicit about. I think that our boys are aware of that expectation and responsibility, so that makes for a great program,” Ayala said.
The Archie Williams Falcons will play their last league game against the Tamalpais High School Hawks away Wednesday, Feb. 4.
