Cruiser soccer has tough week; league season next

The Eatonville High School girls soccer team faced a challenging week as they grappled with a three-game losing streak after their first defeat of the season in the previous week. 

Despite the setbacks, the team remains determined to grow and improve as they prepare for the start of league play.

In their first matchup of the week against Napavine on Monday, the Lady Cruisers fought valiantly but ultimately fell short, losing 3-2. The game proved to be a closely contested battle, with both teams showcasing their offensive prowess.

Napavine drew first blood halfway through the first half, taking a 1-0 lead. However, the Lady Cruisers swiftly responded, with Ryan Stammen netting a goal, assisted by Ashley Limbird, to level the score at 1-1. The momentum swings continued as Napavine regained the lead with approximately five minutes left in the first half, heading into halftime with a 2-1 advantage.

The second half saw Eatonville mounting a comeback, with a goal that evened the score at 2-2, courtesy of Mary Van Eaton's unassisted effort. Unfortunately, Napavine managed to break the tie once more, scoring approximately ten minutes later to secure a 3-2 victory. Despite numerous opportunities, the Lady Cruisers were unable to find the back of the net in the closing minutes of the game.

Reflecting on the tough loss, interim Head Coach Machaela Swartout expressed optimism about the team's growth and readiness for the upcoming season play. "The Napavine match was another day for us to grow and improve," Coach Swartout said. "The past couple of weeks, there have been a lot to work on, and we are right where we want to be right now leading into the start of season play. It's tough to lose a game we feel like we should win, but we remind the girls to trust in the process and to keep working hard."

The Lady Cruisers faced another challenge on Thursday as they traveled to Jack Rottle Stadium in Montesano to take on the Bulldogs in their 1A Evergreen League opener. Unfortunately, the Lady Cruisers were shutout 4-0 by their opponents.

Looking ahead, the Cruisers had a Tuesday match, then: Thursday, Oct. 5: Away game at Elma High School at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 7: Match against Cascade Christian at Sunset Stadium in Sumner at 2:30 p.m.

The Cruisers are eager to make a strong showing in these upcoming matches and are confident in their ability to bounce back from their recent setbacks.