By Jeremy McDonald

jeremymcdonald73@gmail.com

SALEM, Ore.–  Defense was once again the vocal point in the Salem Academy and Western Christian Girls Soccer game Monday afternoon at Salem Academy.  

The only hiccups for either defense allowed was a 20th minute goal by the Crusaders Grace Hinkle and a 61st minute goal by the Pioneers Clarie Harris that had tie the game up at one in the 3A/2A/1A Special District 3 1-1 tie on this day.  It was the second time the two squads met in less than two weeks.

“We all talked to each other  a lot better this time and made sure we had each other’s back and I think that’s really helpful.  If we play again, like we did today at our most fierce moments then I think we can compete better next time,” Salem Academy’s Sophie Pass said.  “Offensively we need to take more shots because we have a lot of good girls who have a strong kick and they all can score.  Defenisvely, I liked how we talked this game and I think we just need to continue to communicate with one another.”

Both teams looked crisper.  Pressing the ball up the field, communicating as Madi Nicoli and Pass quite frankly didn’t let much pass them with shots that got through their respective defenses.  Pass herself had a crucial save with seven minutes to play that had helped keep the save in tact heading into the final whistle Monday.  

“It was really fun to see how we’ve improved and how they’ve improved and what we’re both working on as teams together.  Both teams felt really good about our goales and we’re happy where we ended,” Harris said.

The Crusaders (0-1-2), still hunting for their first win of the season, will be at Dayton Thursday.  Western Christian (1-0-2) has started the season with a three-game unbeaten streak as they host Blanchet Catholic Thursday afternoon.

Photos By Jeremy McDonald