Varsity Soccer Travels To Cristo Rey
The TCS Soccer Cougars scored their first two goals of the season on Friday night, but they were unable to come away with their first victory, falling to Cristo Rey 6-2. The Cougars started well on Friday, playing with energy and enthusiasm under the lights in Atlanta. Cristo Rey’s quick passing helped them create a pair of early chances, both of which were denied by keeper Aidan Briggs. Cristo Rey would not be denied on their third opportunity, though, and the Cougars fell behind 1-0. A defensive breakdown led to a second Cristo Rey goal just a few minutes later, but the Cougars would not be deterred. Responding almost immediately, Daniel Byman and Blake Lackey played a perfect one-two to break down the Cristo Rey defence and Byman smashed his left-footed shot past the keeper to get the Cougars right back in the game. Buoyed by the goal, TCS continued to press Cristo Rey and forced a few sloppy passes. This energy faded as Criso Rey broke down the Cougar defence for another goal just before the half.
The Cougars continued to press Cristo Rey in the second half, and once again, their pressure paid off. Camden Michaud won the ball in an attacking position and played an early ball into Daniel Byman at the top of the Cristo Rey box. With two deft touches, Byman flicked the ball around the defender and onto his right foot. His volleyed shot then rocketed into the top of the net for his second goal of the game. Despite their consistent effort, the Cougars could not hold back the Cristo Rey offense, though. Cristo Rey notched another 3 goals in the second half, and the game finished 6-2.
Game Notes: Aidan Briggs produced another 8 saves, including a miraculous 1-on-1 denial in the second half. Alex Hogg and Elijah Joiner again anchored the TCS defense and each recorded a few tackles. Leighton Braglia made her TCS Soccer debut. Gabe Belden nearly scored his first TCS goal off of a corner kick delivery from Daniel Byman, only to have his shot saved by the keeper.