Carlmont’s JV boys soccer team defeated Menlo High School 2-0 in their first preseason game on Monday, Nov. 28, at Carlmont High School. The Scots showed poise and confidence as they dominated the Knights in an exciting matchup.
“I think there were many times when our team played very well, although we definitely can improve. Being the first game of the season, we still need lots of improvement,” said sophomore Nico Golomb.
The game started slow as the Scots struggled to find their rhythm. As halftime neared, Carlmont sophomore Zaid Gaber scored the first goal of the match. Gaber’s shot deflected off of a defender, confusing the goalkeeper and causing the Scots to end the first half in the lead at 1-0.
As the second half began, the Scots came out strong. Just five minutes in, Carlmont sophomore Leonidas Brotons scored the game’s second goal. Broton’s shot was out of reach for the Menlo goalkeeper, bringing the score to 2-0.
“This game was, in my mind, a warmup game. Our team is really strong, so this game was all about making sure the team worked well together,” Golomb said.
The Scots had other chances for goals but weren’t able to follow through. Carlmont sophomore Gregoire Scherrer dribbled through the Knights defense, shooting the ball from 25 yards away and hitting the upper left post. Scherrer was astonished it didn’t find the back of the net but after multiple missed goals, the Scots were now determined to score.
“Last year, we beat Menlo 10-0, so we definitely wanted to score more than what we did,” Golomb said.
Despite attempts to gain additional goals, the game ended with a score of 2-0, giving the Scots their first preseason win.
“The game went well. We could have played better during some moments of the game, but it’s the start of the season. There will be some mistakes, but I think we did a good job limiting them today,” said Sean Campos, the JV coach.
Carlmont junior Austyn Lee-Meintzer is adjusting to his new role this season as a captain of the team.
“I’m seen as the role model to all these younger players, especially because I’m a junior. Because of this, I have to mentally keep the team in check,” Lee-Meintzer said.
The team is looking forward to future matches as the season starts.
“I’m a former Sequoia student, so I’m looking forward to that game. We’re going smack them, I’m calling it here,” Campos said.
With the rest of the season ahead, the Scots are hoping to repeat previous triumphs.
“We’re headed on the right trajectory for another very successful season,” Campos said.
