Eagles Girls Soccer kicks off 2024 season with 2-0 win over MC

By Emily Brennan

The Mystic Valley girls’ soccer team opens the year 1-0 following a 2-0 win over Malden Catholic at Eastern Avenue on Wednesday night. The talent and athleticism showcased by each player contributed significantly to this thrilling win.

Starting goalie Emily DeLeire was kept busy in the first half, as the freshman made 15 saves to keep the game scoreless. Junior Katie Guo continued her strong form from last year by shooting on net twice but was not able to capitalize on either shot. Malden Catholic outshot Mystic Valley in the first half but could not break through despite keeping the Eagles hemmed in in their own end.

Mystic Valley hit the ground running, using the opening minutes of the second half to set a tone for the rest of the contest by controlling the ball in the offensive end. Junior Lucia Antonucci made it a 1-0 contest for the Eagles after connecting on an assist from senior captain Abby Ssewankambo. Malden Catholic had two more shots, and a corner kick, but were unable to take back an advantage.

In the final five minutes, Antonucci added her second goal, unassisted. Malden Catholic moved the ball against a very stubborn defense but did not find the back of the net at all. The hosts were able to continue to press for the remainder of the game to give the Mystic Valley Eagles a 2-0 win at home.

“I was proud of how we turned our game around coming into the second half,” Coach Katie Morales said. “Our offensive line was strong at pushing through the defensive line and remaining on sides even though they were holding the midfield tight.”

The Eagles will be the hosts again on Thursday, September 12, for a game against Innovation Academy.