Following a competitive and physical 3-3 match against Chaska Sept. 18, Park boy’s soccer focused on preparing for an intense game. Taking on Waconia Sept. 20, the team was challenged by aggressive opposing effort and a back-and-forth first half.
According to junior captain Johnny Ryan, the game was tough but the team persevered.
“The main focus was not giving up despite being challenged in the game,” Ryan said. “When we had the lead, they were motivated to come back early. We did well by not allowing them to get the lead and by finishing the game strong.”
Scoring twice in the second half, junior Elijah Proost said it helped that the team had high hopes and strong motivation approaching this game.
“We thought we could and would beat them, and we did,” Proost said. “We worked on switching the field and making sure everyone was physically and mentally prepared to compete.”
Assistant coach Pat Hartman said he had various emotions throughout the game.
“The team did well. I wasn’t happy with the goals we gave up, but we did well by coming back and scoring twice after halftime to bring the energy,” Hartman said. “We also didn’t get scored on in the second half, so we are all pleased with the outcome.”
Scoring on a penalty kick in the middle of the first half, junior Lucas Tangelson said the team prepared well for the game, bonding as players and people.
“To prepare, we looked back on the other matches to find what we could improve upon and apply to this game,” Tangelson said. “We also had unlimited wings at Applebee’s last night, and it really got our team going with the caloric surplus. We were all energized for today.”
Ryan said the team is looking forward to their next game after gaining confidence from the win.
“The momentum throughout the game is something we will take away and bring to our match against Hopkins,” Ryan said. “We had a rough game on Monday, and getting the win tonight is motivating.”
Park boy’s soccer challenges the Hopkin’s Royals next at 9:00 a.m. Sept. 23 at Hopkins High School.
