By Gene Helfman
The Lopez Boys’ soccer team opened their 2024 season at home against cross-channel rival Friday Harbor on Friday, Sept. 20th. A large crowd, including many alumni, contemplated the fact that no one could remember Lopez defeating Friday Harbor, at least not in collective memory. Although hopes are always high at the beginning of a new season, and Lopez has an experienced squad dominated by seniors and juniors, the history of the rivalry gave little room for optimism. However, the Lobos apparently didn’t get the memo.
The first half opened with energetic and even play, the ball moving up and down the pitch. In the 31st minute, Ethan Patrick executed a perfect throw-in from the right sideline, the ball arcing in front of the Wolverines’ goal. Jacob Velazquez-Velazco leapt and headed the ball into the top of the Friday Harbor net. Score at the end of the half, Lobos 1, Wolverines 0.
The second half began with even more promise. At the two-minute mark, Andris Meissner ran down the left sideline, outdistancing several Friday Harbor defenders, then rocketed the ball past the charging Wolverine keeper. The score remained Lopez 2, Friday Harbor 0 until the 27th minute when the Wolverines scored from the left side. The pace picked up from there, Lopez keeper Jacob Sanford stopping several shots on goal, although his defensive wall thwarted most of Friday Harbor’s attack. Lopez also had scoring opportunities, one ball hitting the cross bar and another the right post. The game ended Lopez 2, Friday Harbor 1!
Calling the post-game celebration jubilant is an understatement. The entire team surrounded keeper Sanford, then turned and applauded the spectators that filled the sideline. Afterward, Coach Mycah Kraushaar shared the excitement, saying, “They all just played the hardest I’ve ever seen them play. Collectively as a team they did more passing. There was more chemistry than I’ve ever seen before. It was amazing!” Upcoming home games are scheduled for Oct. 1 and 14, with a rematch at Friday Harbor Oct. 8.
