Soccer heads to season’s end

The Vashon High School boys soccer team played three games off-island last week, and the intensity was agonizing as each game was a come-from-behind battle that either resulted in a win or a tie

May 7, 2014 4:38 pm

By BEN BORK

The Vashon High School boys soccer team played three games off-island last week, and the intensity was agonizing as each game was a come-from-behind battle that either resulted in a win or a tie.

First up was last-place Life Christian. Life Christian had nothing to lose and brought the quick attack that resulted in a fast 2-0 lead for the Eagles. Vashon varsity players struggled to find their teammates, but eventually found the back of the net with Gabe Reoux opening up scoring. Life Christian dug in, got tough and started hacking at everything in range, including ankles, shins and knees.

This style of play resulted in penalty kicks (PK) for both teams. Vashon goalkeeper Ben Stemmer saved his second PK of the season, and team captain Peter Amick buried his kick in the back of the net. Vashon eventually won 5-2.

Two days later Vashon played a rematch with Charles Wright Academy.  The previous encounter saw Vashon come from behind and tie up the game only to lose in overtime. This game had the same feel, and Vashon was behind 2-0 by halftime. The Tarriers are the second-place team in the conference, and speed and skill are their strengths. The Pirates’ strength is unrelenting stamina through the passing game and wearing the opposing team down. This is exactly what happened. Charles Wright could not finish the game. Vashon tied up the game 2-2, and losing in overtime was not an option this night. The varsity players scuffed up the shine of Charles Wright’s near perfect season.

On Saturday, Vashon traveled to Cedar Park Christian and went down 4-2 by the half. The Pirates rallied hard the second half and wore the Eagles down.  With help from a couple of own goals from Cedar Park and a last-minute corner kick served up by Austyn Heit, Vashon won 5-4. Peter Amick headed the corner kick into the back of the net as the last whistle was blown.

Pirate soccer has three games left and will try to better position itself for next week’s Tri-District tournament playoffs. They are currently in a three-way tie for third place.