Shake-up leads to first win

Times Reporter    

 

The Strathmore High School (SHS) boys had two games back to back on May 7 and  May 8 – though both games were losses (5-1 against Holy Trinity and 3-1 against Canmore respectively), coach Kaitrin McDonnell said at home against Canmore was a large improvement, based on style of play.

“They were drastically different games. We played a way better soccer game on Thursday,” McDonnell said. “The Canmore team is really good, and they play a really clean, nice, skill-filled game. It brought our playing style up, versus our previous game.”

With more confidence following that match, SHS took on Notre Dame on May 12, with both teams searching for their first win of the season. At half, SHS was down 2-0.

“On a whim, I switched things up drastically on the field,” McDonnell said.

McDonnell moved her starting goalie to striker, and threw in her second string Grade 10 in net.

“Within four minutes of doing that, we had three goals,” McDonnell said. “Our first string goalie is amazing; he’s very good with his soccer sense. He understands the game, which a huge benefit to have him in net because he can see everything and communicate that to the team.” 

The SHS Spartans went on to accomplish their first win of the season, 5-2.

“We had faith and trust in our second-string goalie. He is learning. He’s never really played before, but he just has a natural ability to defend and to keep the ball out of the net,” McDonnell said.

The boys played again May 14 against Foothills Composite High School (result not available as of press time). Three games remain in their season.