Going for Gold - By Nate Ruelas
On Thursday night, October 5th, the 10-1 Richland Bombers hosted the 10-1 Chiawana Riverhawks. The last game Richland played against Chiawana, it was a loss 1-0, so Lady Bombers came to play and won. This was a very anticipated rivalry matchup, and Richland was looking for their redemption.
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| Photo: Metcalf Media (@metclafmedia_) |
Before the game, I was able to speak to Senior Bella Bunnage on Richland, and I asked what their game plan or team strategy was. “We’ve been watching a lot of Chiawana film and prepping for the game. We made some changes to our routes and lineup because it didn’t work out for us previously,” Bella said. She also pointed out that she has a best friend on the opposing team, Bella Hoag. I asked what it feels like going up against your best friend, and she said, “ I wish her the best, but I want to win. We grew up together playing soccer with each other, and this is one of the times we face off against each other”.
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| Photo: Metcalf Media (@metclafmedia_) |
As the game started, not much into the first half, Junior Payton Anderson, with a pass to Senior Bella Bunnage and a shot attempt by her, was missed shy of the goal, putting everyone on their toes. It went back and forth, as both teams gave it their all for a while until a handball penalty led to a penalty shot by Chiawana. The shot was deflected by Alyssa Marsh, then rebounded by Alexa Campos for Chianwa, and she could score, but it was called back for an offside against the Riverhawks. During stoppage time, there was a free kick by Chiawana, and Alyssa Marsh made a fantastic save. Lady Bomber's defense was terrific. They had multiple defensive stops repeatedly. The ball was in their control. Although the ball did get close to going in by Chiawana, as there were shots made by them, the Richland goalie was there. Lady Bomber goalie Alyssa Marsh was there each time to stop the Chiawana Riverhawks with amazing saves.
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| Photo: Metcalf Media (@metclafmedia_) |
As things started in the second half, it was 0-0, and the Bombers came out ready to attack. The second half was much like the first half, with both teams giving it their all. They were back and forth once again. However, the Richland Bombers were playing a much better game, as Senior Center Tiffany Turner got a free kick around the left corner of the box. Her kick dodged the blockers, and the ball was then deflected off a Chiawana player and into their own goal. The Lady Bombers players and Richland fans were screaming in excitement. It gave the Lady Bombers a new boost of energy to keep playing just as hard. The defense and all-around teamwork helped them keep their lead.
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| Photo: Metcalf Media (@metclafmedia_) |
Towards the end of the game, there was some conflict going on about poor calls the referee had made, and Chiawana players were starting to be more aggressive and fouling more often because they were watching the clock go down quicker, and there wasn’t much time left to win. This didn’t stop the Lady Bombers' determination to secure the win, though. The Lady Bombers' rivals were defeated. The hard work and determination they put into playing secured them the victory. The Lady Bombers finish their regular season at 11-1 and are ready for the next chapter.
