Spartans soccer defeated by Okotoks

Miriam Ostermann
Times Associate Editor

 

Speed and skill notwithstanding, the Strathmore Spartans boys’ soccer team found themselves staring down the barrel of defeat earlier this week when they faced off against Foothills Composite High School (FCHS) – a team they triumphed over 4-0 earlier this month.
With the previous outcome still fresh on the Strathmore team’s minds, the Okotoks competition was able to prey on the confidence and settle the score 4-0 in their favour.
“This was just a payback game, unfortunately, we lost this one,” said Spartan Coach Kaitrin McDonnell. “It was probably because we smoked these guys before and they were playing just a little timid and not to the best of their ability. We did everything we needed to do. They played well, they just weren’t fast enough and I think the intensity wasn’t there today. Maybe they’re tired, maybe it was a case of the Mondays, but we weren’t on our best today.”
The Strathmore Grade 10 to Grade 12 students managed to dominate the field numerous times throughout the May 16 game, but were unable to make any completions. While a lack of communication and ball possession are contributing factors to this year’s fluctuating season, McDonnell said the players were also unable to move their feet during the FCHS match.
As many of the players are involved in various other school activities causing scheduling conflicts, Strathmore’s boys’ soccer team has felt the impact on their performance this year.
Coaching staff suspect the participation of a majority of the soccer players in the County’s Track and Field event earlier that Monday may have had an influence on the outcome of the game.
“Team commitment has kind of been an issue, because we don’t have everyone showing up for practices, so how can we be better as a team and come together when not everyone can show up?,” McDonnell asked.
“Our boys are highly involved with our school so I can’t fault them for being in plays and playing other sports. It’s hard to share, but we have to because I like to give as many opportunities as I can to the kids.”
The Strathmore Spartans boys’ soccer team will hit the road to take on Canmore on May 25, before hosting Holy Trinity Academy on May 27. The team is already preparing for zones in Canmore on June 3-4.