Boys Hope to Transform Shaky Start

The boys started out looking sluggish and sloppy on the soccer field last Friday, giving up possession and making Paul VI look better than they were. The game ended in the surprisingly close score of 1-0 in favor of EMHS. The last time EMHS played Paul VI was two years ago in the 2005 season, when they killed them 4-1. (To the left: the team thanking the fans for their support)

The sidelines of the soccer field were packed Friday with dozens of students, recent alumni and adults who turned out to watch EMHS play Paul VI in the first round of the tournament. "It was rough, we stared out slow," said senior Austin Shank. It wasn't until midway through the second half that things started to pick up for the Flames when Mitchell Leap scored an unassisted goal with 22 minutes and 48 seconds left.

Part of the problem was "getting rid of the nerves for States," said Austin. In the next round EMHS will play Potomac School on Monday, Nov. 5, at 3 p.m. at home.

According to senior Bryce Shenk, "Everybody is excited and ready to play." After a light practice this Saturday, Bryce felt the team was "back into our groove" after Friday's disappointing performance.

We've "got to be able to knock it around," said Austin. "It isn't going to be a walk in the park."

- Kara Lofton