Much like the locomotives Laurel is named for, the Locomotives ran over Corvallis in the first round of the girls’ soccer playoff in Corvallis. According to Corvallis coach David Molesh, the Laurel team attacked very strongly and was tough to handle. Laurel won, 4-1, and eliminated Corvallis from the playoffs.
Mya Maack scored for Laurel at 18 minutes but Corvallis’ Maria Hickey came back a minute later to knot the score. But then Laurel went to town and controlled the rest of the game.
“We made a few mistakes and started overthinking in the first half,” said Molesh. “Our mid field started compacting and not letting our defense do what they were supposed to do because they are so strong.”
Corvallis made some adjustments at half and moved their defense out. Molesh said that resulted in better transition for the Blue Devils but they could not get past the goal keeper. Although Laurel won, Corvallis’ keeper, Daphne Reynoso did have some great saves according to Molesh.
“She was a senior, stepping up and leading,” said Molesh.
With only three seniors graduating, Molesh has high hopes for the future. “We are building for the future.”
Stevensville fell to Columbia Falls, 3-0. Stevensville was the No. 3 seed from the South and Columbia Falls is the No. 1 seed from the North.