A tie and a loss ends boys soccer season

Luke Zuzarte, l., goes for a slide tackle in a home game against Ferndale May 1.Photo by Janell Kortlever

By Ian Ferguson

The boys soccer team played its last game of the season May 1, losing a hard-fought game to Ferndale at home 2–0.

Ferndale came out strong in the first half and scored both goals in the first 20 minutes. Blaine picked up the intensity after falling behind and dominated possession in the second half, but couldn’t capitalize on numerous scoring opportunities.

“In the second half we had a lot of shots on goal and opportunities within the 18, but we couldn’t finish,” said Blaine head coach Gio Quesada. “Overall I’m happy with our ball movement and the confidence we showed on the field. Ferndale played well and we just couldn’t finish our shots.”

The loss came on the heels of a 2–2 draw against Meridian on April 30. With the tie and the loss, the Borderites wrapped up their season with an overall record of 3–11–2.

Although the record fell short of last year’s record of 5–7–4 playing in 1A, Quesada said he saw much to be proud of in the team this year.

“Our kids battled every game, never lost their heads and always kept improving. I’m proud of how hard they worked throughout the season,” he said.

Eight seniors played on the varsity squad. Quesada said he would miss the strong senior class.

“They showed good leadership and there are some really good players we’re going to lose,” Quesada said.

Andy Butschli, r., gets a head on the ball in the senior game against Ferndale May 1.Photo by Janell Kortlever

On the bright side, a number of talented underclassmen are looking to step into leadership roles next year.

“It was a learning season for everyone, coaches included,” Quesada said. “There are a lot of younger players who are really learning this style of soccer and showing strong skills. I think the future looks bright for this team.”

The home game against Ferndale was the team’s senior game, with senior players showing appreciation for their parents’ support by handing them flowers.

Quesada said he is thankful for the community support the team has received.

“Win or lose, rain or shine, the parents and community were out there supporting us game after game. I can’t say enough about how much we appreciate the support from the community,” Quesada said.

In an effort to connect the soccer community, Quesada invited the Blaine United team to play at halftime. The United team is made of special needs high school soccer players.

“I wanted to include them as part of the Blaine soccer program and give them a chance to play with the varsity team,” Quesada said. “We had fun, and it was good for both teams to play together.”