On Saturday September 5th the Madison Girls Varsity Soccer team had their first game of the season. They played against Pequannock High School who came to challenge on Madison’s home turf and were ready to win, but the Madison girls were also eager to start off their season with a victory.
It was an extremely hot and humid 90 degree day, but playing on the turf made it feel hotter than 100 degrees. The supporters who came out to cheer on their team were desperate to find shade and some even brought umbrellas to block the sun.
With both teams ready the referee blew the whistle to start the game and pretty soon everyone who came to watch knew that the game was going to be exhilarating. The game started and both sides played with speed, skill, and aggressive play. Pequannock had a lot of great crosses and shots on goal within the first half. The Madison goalie Kristina Qualben (Senior) was excellent, saving all of the shots on her. Twenty minutes into the half, there was a penalty kick awarded to Pequannock. The shot was great, but the goalkeeper had an amazing save. After her save, the team picked up the tempo and got more shots on goal. Going into the second half the score remained 0-0.
Only nine minutes after the second half started there was a handball in the Madison box and Pequannock was given another penalty kick. This time Pequannock scored, pulling ahead and leaving Madison even more eager to score. The Madison girls came out strong after the goal and had a couple of skilled shots on Pequannock. Soon after Mackaella Goodwin (Jun) had an impressive shot and scored the goal that tied the game. Despite the 90-degree weather the Madison and Pequannock teams still played fiercely, both teams having shots on goal. With seven minutes left in the game Katie Flanagan (Soph) took an incredible shot from outside the 18-yard box and scored the winning goal. With the score at 2-1, Pequannock desperately wanted to score again and played tough, putting pressure on the Madison girls, forcing the team to play their best defense until the last seconds of the game.
All of the girls were excited with the great win and start to the 2014 season. Coach Lynott and Coach Sorrentino who played a strategic and encouraging vocal game from the sidelines, congratulated all of the team on their win. Coach Lynott ended the game with a hug from his son and a thank you to all the Madison supporters.
Congratulations Madison girls on their 2-1 win.
GO DODGERS!