The Pagosa Springs High School Lady Pirate soccer team now boasts an overall record of 2-2, after splitting another round of games over the last week.
The Lady Pirates had their first Intermountain League (IML) matchup of the season on April 5, going up against the Montezuma-Cortez Panthers, but losing by a score of 3-0 at home.
“That was a tough game, for sure,” coach Trevor Gian said, explaining that both teams had to endure snowy weather during the match.
He mentioned that the Lady Pirates knew the Panthers would be a tough opponent, noting it was Pagosa’s first game back after spring break.
“We did really well hanging in there with ‘em,” Gian added.
He also mentioned that the Panthers were a physical and “technically sound” team, adding that he was pleased with how the Lady Pirates played defensively by not allowing too many quality offensive chances for the Panthers.
“We were looking pretty good,” Gian said, explaining the Panthers were able to get their first goal late in the first half after the Lady Pirates were unsuccessful in getting the ball cleared, allowing Montezuma-Cortez to capitalize on a bouncing ball in Pagosa’s box.
“We found a little more intensity in the second half, which was awesome, because Cortez was definitely physical,” Gian said.
He noted that the Panthers were able to score their second and third goals about halfway through the second half, after the Lady Pirates made some adjustments to try to get forward more.
“I was extremely proud of how we reacted,” Gian said, explaining the Lady Pirates responded well in the second half after going down 1-0 in the first half.
He commented that everyone on the field put in a good defensive performance, specifically noting goalkeeper Keira Davis’ performance.
Although possession favored the Panthers throughout the game, Gian explained that “at times there was some really quality stuff” from the Lady Pirates.
Additional stats were not available as of press time Wednesday.
On Tuesday, April 8, the Lady Pirates defeated the Del Norte Tigers 8-0 in Del Norte.
Gian commented that he was “extremely satisfied with that game,” noting that Del Norte has improved significantly since last season.
He explained that the focus for the Lady Pirates in their match against Del Norte was to look at areas to improve on from their match against Montezuma-Cortez, specifically in finding quality possession and build-up attacking play.
Gian mentioned that the Lady Pirates have been focusing on playing with “intent and purpose,” and that the players are starting to understand their roles a little more.
“Extremely proud of the team,” Gian added.
He noted that Elizabeth Currier scored a hat trick on the day, bagging three goals for the Lady Pirates.
“Really great effort there,” he added.
He also noted that Hailey Sams scored two goals from an impressive individual effort.
Terriana Cage had a “great assist” on one of Currier’s goals, and was also able to find the back of the net herself to score one goal for the Lady Pirates on the day, Gian explained.
Tatiana Monterroso and Isabela Forester each had one goal as well, Gian noted, adding that Monterroso “puts herself in good positions.”
Gian also explained that Forester’s goal came from a corner kick after moving up from a defensive position to score with a “nice little tap to the corner.”
Gian added that attacking the ball and being aggressive on corner kicks has been a point of emphasis with the team so far this season.
Gian highlighted Adison Johnson’s performance in the midfield, noting she helped create “a lot of stuff,” along with Baylee Davis’ and Zariah Blankenship’s solid defensive performances.
Additional stats were not available as of press time Wednesday.
Upcoming schedule
The Lady Pirates currently sit in third place in the IML as they prepare for their next league matchup against Alamosa tomorrow, April 11, at 4 p.m. in Alamosa.
Gian mentioned that the game against Del Norte was good for the Lady Pirates preparation for Alamosa as both opponents play on turf fields instead of natural grass.
He also noted that he expects Alamosa to be a quick and fast team and that the Lady Pirates will need to “come out on our toes right away.”
On Saturday, April 12, the Lady Pirates will travel to Leadville to take on Lake County at 11 a.m.
Gian explained he is wanting to see the Lady Pirates capitalize on earlier opportunities in that matchup.
On Tuesday, April 15, the Lady Pirates will host the Bayfield Wolverines at Golden Peaks Stadium at 4 p.m.
Gian noted that he is feeling “good and confident” heading into this string of games.
clayton@pagosasun.com
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