Ravens Come Out Strong in Debut

The Hillcrest Ravens finally opened the 2024 soccer season after having their first match postponed and the location for the second changed to the Hillcrest field due to heavy rains earlier in the week.

With a slight wind at their back the Ravens created several early chances before Seth Ours took control of a WACO goal kick, beat two defenders and then the goalie to notch the first goal of the season. The back defensive line anchored by Bryce Bailey and Mason Helmuth along with Isaac Birky, Lincoln Miller and Angel Sambrano limited WACO’s chances and opportunities. Midfielders Mason Bender, Seth Ours, Rowan Miller, Jesse Blossom and Micah Gerber consistently won balls in the middle of the field before pushing the ball to forwards Mason Swartzendruber and Phoenix Anderson. 

The second goal came at 13:51 on the clock as Jesse Blossom sent a crossing ball into Micah Gerber who sent the ball into the net for. Minutes later, Gerber passed the ball to Rowan Miller who rocketed a shot by the WACO goalie for the half-time score of 3-0. 

With the wind at their backs WACO was able to create some more offensive pressure but the defensive unit stood strong as Kyle Neuschwander recorded five saves in goal to preserve the shutout. 

The Ravens finished the scoring fifteen minutes into the half when Blossom sent a ball in from the left side to Miller on the edge of the box. Miller deftly turned, opening space for him to pass the ball into the net for the final 4-0 win. 

It was good to see the team perform well in its opening match, especially the active presence of the midfielders. Newcomers Isaac Beachy and Angel Sambrano provided good minutes in their first varsity action. 

Hillcrest returns to action with a home match Monday April 8 against Central Lee, followed by a trip to Sigourney Keota on Tuesday.