Feb. 24 in the Raider valley, North Forsyth’s varsity boys soccer team competed in a thrilling match against Chestatee Highschool of Gainesville, GA. Before the boys varsity game, the senior night for both girls and boys varsity soccer was held. Since the majority of the team is seniors and upperclassmen, there was a high turnout in the stands and cheers from the surrounding friends and family echoed in the Valley.
Before the game began, both the teams were obviously anticipating the match. While waiting, the players showcased some amazing kicks and passes; however, the cold weather would definitely take a toll on the game’s speed. As the huddle ended, the boys shouted, “1…2…3 Raiders!” before heading onto the field.
The first string players to start off the game were: Fysher Brablett, Kenny Montoya, Koa Herrel, Yernur Bayash, Gabe Raines, Giovanni Morales,Corrimiglia Jaeden, Lucas Ricker, with Landon Merrin as the goalie.
During the first half, both Chestatee and North were on the ball, running it constantly back and forth. Neither team was showing any slack with their performances.
Once it hit 31:37 left on the clock, Montoya bagged the first goal of the game. Chestatee fought back harder. However, nothing got past Merrin, North’s goalie as he stopped the ball multiple times.
With 20 minutes left in the first half, the tension began rising between the coaches and players and on the field. This anxious tension ultimately led to Merrin preventing a powerful shot on goal from Chestatee with 16 minutes on the clock.
After the close call, Chestatee began picking up speed and with 8 minutes left on the clock Chestatee rushed and scored their first goal against North Forsyth.
As half-time struck, the wind began to pick up, leaving many fans huddled up in coats, hoodies and blankets; however, it didn’t seem to affect the players! North slowed themselves, but increased their brilliant footwork.
Once the second half started, it was back and forth for the rest of the game, Fans began to get riled up and as the time dwindled, so did the patience.
With only 6:50 left on the clock, Sam Cooper scored the second and final goal for North Forsyth. Cooper secured the victory for the boys and brought a happy ending to the night. The win was very appreciated as it honored the soccer team’s seniors.
