Girls soccer team wins first league game after winter break

On Wednesday, Jan. 11, the girl's soccer team returned from winter break and won their first league game at home against Lawndale High School, winning in overtime 3-2.During the first half of the game, Samo underperformed. Their energy was lacking on the field, and the girls were repeatedly making mistakes ranging from turning over the ball to keeping up with Lawndale players on their side of the field. This is the first time in weeks that the team has played a game prior to having a full day of school. “Heading into the match, the expectations were for us to get back to the form we were in prior to the holiday break and to continue to work on raising our level of play,” coach Jimmy Chapman said.  The game kicked off with forward Lily Moore (’17) scoring the first goal of the game. Shortly after, Moore was escorted off the field due to sustaining a concussion from a Lawndale defender. In fact, many players were out due to various injuries. “We were in a tough spot with several injuries,” Chapman said. “Our approach to those types of situations is that when a teammate is down another steps up to help. The expectation for the girls is that everyone is ready to play because your number will be called sooner than later.” The half ended in a 1-1 tie and the girl’s returned to the second half continuing to underperform. Midfielder Sierra Merille (’19) scored a goal from far out giving the girls hope that they will continue their winning streak at home. It wasn’t until the last ten minutes of the game when a Lawndale player was able to wiggle her way through Samo’s defense and lay a shot on net tying the game 2-2.Because this game was a league game, the match went into overtime. On top of playing 80 minutes of soccer, they had to endure another 20+ minutes of the field in hopes of securing a victory. Merille scored another goal which got the sidelines jumping and screaming with enthusiasm. “I think overall we played well, considering we have some injuries on the team,” Merille said. “My success came as a result of my teammates assisting me.”  Heading into the rest of the season, Chapman will continue to emphasize the importance of fitness. He believes that it is a key component towards the team's success. The coaching staff is hoping to play the girls back into shape, but they are hoping that the girls will put in the work themselves off the field.