The PACA Warrior Boys push forward in an intense home match

Warrior forward player, Junior Leo Tamashiro, presses on during an intense moment of a hard home game. [by Mariana Yagui]

by Isabella Bruniera

August 18th, Tuesday night – The PACA varsity boys’ soccer team faced Chapel in a tough home game that ended in a narrow 2–1 loss. Despite the result, the Warriors showed teamwork, and a brilliance that points to a promising season ahead.

Chapel struck early, scoring within the first five minutes with a low shot into the bottom right corner past PACA’s freshman goalkeeper, Vitor Silva. The rest of the first half saw the Warriors respond with energy and determination. Multiple attacking attempts came from Philip Emanuel, Samuel Volkart, Ben Oliveira, and Leo Tamashiro, but none were able to find the back of the net.

Finally, at 37:45, PACA found their breakthrough. After a strong push down the field, Ben Portella fired a shot that was tapped in by Samuel Volkart for an equalizer. The halftime whistle blew with the score tied 1–1, sending the crowd into celebration.

The second half was evenly matched, filled with back-and-forth plays and frustration on both sides. At about 18 minutes in, Chapel took advantage of a shooting opportunity and scored a high ball into the top right corner. It was an impossible save for PACA’s goalie, Freshman Vitor Silva. 

Even with several late efforts, PACA could not find another goal. The final whistle confirmed Chapel’s 2–1 victory, even after five minutes of added play.

Philip Emmanuel, who is the striker for the team, reflected on the team’s performance in the game. 

“We were able to pass the ball well and attack, but we didn’t kick the ball enough toward the goal,” said Phillip Emmanuel. “The toughest part of the game was when Chapel scored the second goal because it was very hard to get past their defense,and when we did,we weren’t able to score.” 

Phillip also noted how the new additions to the soccer team affected their overall performance in the game.

“I think the new players will help the team very well,” said Emmanuel, “Some players like Samule Volkart who scored, Lucca Machado, also helped the team in the attack. Being a new old player too,I think we’ll really be able to help the team.”

“I think the new players will help,” said Coach Zé Adriano.

Adriano has been the soccer coach for four years, is the first to see both the teams strengths and weaknesses out on the soccer field. 

“We played well and had good control, but we need to improve shooting more balls in the goal, and our defense when we lose the ball,” said Adriano.

Even with the loss, the Warriors showed good teamwork and spirit. With committed practice, new athletes going to the team, and returning players, the Warriors look forward to their attack and defense as the season continues.