Blair claims victory over Einstein

Oct. 21, BLAZER STADIUM—

For senior night, dozens of enthusiastic fans came to cheer on the Blazers during their 3-0 victory over the Einstein Titans. Across the field, an enormous sign saying "we love our seniors" hung from the bleachers, and several players baked soccer-themed cakes and made posters to express their appreciation. The festive atmosphere carried over to the game, as the Blazers' played with intensity and positive attitudes.

Blair came out stronger and more motivated than usual in the first half. The Blazers played the ball well into open space, and although they did not score for the majority of the half, they had many promising chances and maintained dominance over Einstein.

The defense effectively protected the goal, allowing the Titans few scoring opportunities. Blair did have some defensive lapses. At one point, junior keeper Maggie Sullivan had to dive to block a shot, and as the Einstein strikers attempted to attack again, she was forced to make an impressive second block without even getting up. Senior Sophie Esparza was then able to step up and clear the ball from Blair's defensive end with a powerful kick towards center field.

Towards the end of the half , junior Danielle Peck, who had possession of the ball around the 18 yard line, passed to Freshman Annie Worden who spontaneously took a few touches and shot the ball into the net to claim Blair's first goal. The Blazers ended the first half 1-0, and they hustled off the field with smiles on their faces.

Eight minutes into the second half, Freshman Annie Worden broke through the Einstein defense in a breakaway, and as her opponents struggled to catch up with her, she strategically drew the goalie towards her and netted the ball in the far corner, bringing the score to 2-0.

Blair's final goal was by Peck, who received an inbounds throw from sophomore Lizzie Horne, wove through the defense and shot the ball, curving it just out of the keeper's grasp into the upper-right hand corner of the net. With ten minutes on the clock and control of the game, the Blazers began to relax and enjoy themselves as Einstein showed signs of giving up.

After the game, coach Robert Gibb delivered a post-game speech in which he recognized the team's three seniors, Sophie Esparza, Sarah Rumbaugh and Katherine Duncan, for their dedication and contributions to the team. "These are three players that we look up to, who play the way we want to play - with hard work, a will to win and a love of the game," said Gibb.

He commended Esparza, who has played on varsity since freshmen year, for her confidence and intimidating presence on the field, as well as her ability to lead the team by example as a dominating defensive player. "She is that notch above - she has the magic to make things happen," he said.

Gibb's words of praise for Rumbaugh were of a different sort, since her season-ending injury has left her on the sidelines. He applauded her for stepping up as an assistant coach to guide the team with moral support and constructive advice. "I'm impressed with how much she has learned and developed as a coach," he said. "She understands the game and she has that intuitive knack."

Although Duncan was unable to attend tonight's game, Gibb acknowledged her solid effort as a outside midfielder. He said that her determination, her positive attitude and her experience have all brought a lot to the team.

As the season comes to an end, Gibb looks back on Blair's accomplishments and 5-5-1 record with satisfaction, "Despite a few bumps in the road, this has been one of the most successful seasons," said Gibb, referring specifically to the Blazers' team spirit and unity, and their ability to overcome their weaknesses. He looks forward to avenging the close losses that Blair suffered during the season when the playoffs roll around.

Blair's final in-season game is at Walter Johnson on Monday, Oct. 24 at 7:00 p.m.