On Thursday, May 1, MIHS Boys Soccer battled against the Newport Knights while also celebrating the team’s seniors.
The eleven senior boys walked, flowers in hand, to their families to start the night. As the game began, the boys were in a celebratory mood and ready to play a tough game.
“I was so excited to play with my friends that I’ve had since freshman year. The vibe of the stands really heightened the game and made it more fun; it was the perfect segway into KingCo and then State,” senior Bryce Martin said.
The Newport Knights started off strong, passing one-twos around the Mercer Island defense and establishing a strong passing game. Within the first five minutes, the Knights had the ball across the net with an easy tap in, scoring the first goal of the game.
“We had each other’s backs and were supportive throughout the start. We kept up the positivity even through the first goal and it only inspired us to work harder and score a goal back,” Martin said.
With students and fans showing up and cheering, massive heads of the seniors as children floating throughout the stands, the game began to close in. The MI boys persisted, fighting against fouls, a yellow card, and finally getting some shots on goal. 30 minutes later, it paid off with a breakaway goal by senior Cole Nicholson.
Going into halftime, the score stayed tied 1-1.
The second half started off strong on both sides, the ball finding both sides of the field. Junior Jack Wyss managed to get another goal in against Newport and set the Islanders ahead. But, the Knights were determined as well and weren’t going down without a fight. The Knights scored another goal to tie the game once again and as the time dwindled down, the two teams looked to be playing in overtime. Letting in another goal to give up the lead was not part of the Islander’s plan.
“We knew we needed to stay strong and disciplined throughout the game. Going into state, we’re going to take this as a lesson,” senior Ben Park said.
The game ended in a 2-2 tie and the MI boys are now looking forward to advancing throughout KingCo and the postseason. Come show your support for the MIHS boys’ soccer at the next game on Thursday, May 8!
