BOYS’ SOCCER SPORT SHORTS, 2013-14–
(Scrimmages do not count toward win/loss record. Visit the Sports Section for boys’ soccer features). For a simple overview of scores and upcoming games, check the Winter sport box scores, 2012-13, for dates, opponents and times for all Eagle sports.
Be sure to visit the 2013-14 boys’ soccer schedule, home page, or check out Maxpreps.com. FC is currently 0-0 in the West Sequoia League and 1-3 overall as of Jan. 6.
EAGLES DROP SEASON OPENER, 3-1, Dec. 3
The Eagles boys soccer team travelled to Bakersfield for the Garces Holiday Soccer Festival, Dec. 20-21. The Eagles played three games total, winning the first against Kern Valley 6-0, but losing the following games 4-1 against Kennedy and 7-0 against Orcutt.
While playing Kern Valley on Dec. 20, the Eagles scored three goals in each half, with Taylor Howard, ’15, and Jacob Bynum, ’17, contributing two goals each. Christian Saylor, ’14, and Jordan Castro, ’15, also scored for the Eagles.
Against Kennedy on Dec. 21, the Eagles gave up a few early goals and were held scoreless in the first half. Taylor Howard scored for the Eagles in the second half. The final score was 4-1, Kennedy.
Later that same day, the Eagles struggled against Orcutt offensively and defensively, giving up seven goals and failing to score in a game for the first time this season.
Midfielder Jordan Castro noted that while the losses were disappointing, the overall experience of the tournament was good for the team.
“I had a lot of fun at Garces,” Castro said. “I think the team bonded a lot over the tournament. Even though we lost the last two games, we learned a lot. ”
Coach Matt Markarian was disappointed at the Eagles effort, particularly in the last game, but he emphasized team growth as the focus for preseason matches.
“The tournament went well,” Markarian said. “Obviously, we needed to play better in that last game especially, but the team’s effort was good against Kern Valley and through most of the game against Kennedy. The point of these tournaments is to prepare for the league season.”
Adam Khouzam, ’15, enjoyed getting to know the team during the tournament.
“My favorite part of the tournament was just hanging out with the guys on the team,” Khouzam said. “I think we improved because of the tournament, even though we lost to Orcutt. Garces was just a fun experience.”
The Eagles will next travel to play Liberty High School, Dec. 30.
This author can be reached via Twitter: @m00re_is_better. Follow The Feather via Twitter: @thefeather.
For more sports, read the Dec. 13 article, BRIEF: Soccer teams prepare for annual tournament .
