The Archbishop Mitty Lions shut out the Carlmont boys varsity soccer team at home on Tuesday, Dec. 9. Lack of communication and team chemistry by the Scots resulted in their 3-0 loss.
The Scots entered the game anticipating a difficult match, and were expecting to defend their home field.
The first half of the game was full of energy and aggression, with fouls handed out to both teams. Mitty opened with quick dribbles and interceptions, but Carlmont maintained the level of play.
“Mitty is always a very competitive team. We knew going into this game that it was going to be tough. Compared to last year, it was almost an identical result, although I personally do not believe the score reflected our [skill],” said junior Brent Jang.
Carlmont’s attempted shots were easily met by Mitty’s keeper, and a curve ball free kick by junior Malcolm McClellan rebounded off the goal post.
The score remained 0-0 at the half.
Carlmont suffered in the second half, allowing the ball past their defenders. In turn, the Lions were granted three goals late in the second.
Communication proved to be an area of weakness for the Scots. Team chemistry is critical, and after one month of practices, members are still adjusting to each other’s playing styles.
Junior Matt DeGraff said, “We have lots of good individual players, but even after one month of practicing together, we’ve been unable to create a unified team.”
Some players doubt the team’s competitiveness in play.
“We possess individual skill, but lack in decision making,” said junior Max Storozhenko. “At times it seems like some players aren’t used to the speed of the game.”
This season, a majority of the boys varsity soccer team is made up of juniors and sophomores.
“Because we are such a young team, we are almost always outmatched physically. We have to exercise a more teamwork-oriented style of play,” said Jang.
