Both varsity soccer teams defeated the Benton Panthers Monday, 5-0.
The boys team dominated, but before the game coach Jason Hay was still preparing for a tough game.
“Benton game will be tough just because it’s Benton,” Hay said. “You never know what to expect out of a rivalry game.”
The girls team did so well the first half that coach Long told the players to only score off a head shot at the end of the game.
Junior Kaitlin Gaiser, who scored along with sophmore Rori Whittaker, junior Shelby Gartrell, senior Kaitie Morre, and senior Morgan Hawkins, feels confident the team will do just as well throughout the season.
“We had good ball movement and controlled the game,” Gaiser said. “I feel confident going up against Central and pretty much everyone this year.”
Both teams will play at Central March 15. Girls start at 5 p.m.
Hay said it was vital for the team to win against Central.
“Central will be tough as always. They have a very good team with several returning starters,” Hay said. “It is the first conference game of the season. Getting the first conference win is very important going into spring break.”
Hay said he has a good team; they just need to work on finishing.
“We have had several goal scoring opportunities and have not been able to get the ball in the goal like we need to,” Hay said. “If we want a chance to win the conference, we will need to capitalize every chance we get.”
The girls team returns six seniors The boys have 11 seniors, most of whom have been playing together for years.
“Anytime you have players back with varsity playing time it helps. Most of our players have been playing together for years not only in high school soccer but also in club soccer,” Hay said. “They are an extremely hard-working group and I expect some good things from them this season.”
