Boys soccer playing well

The boys soccer team kicked off their league opener with a 2-0 shutout at Pleasant Hill on Monday, September 28. On Wednesday, September 30, they tied 0-0 at home against league rival Marist.

The Outlaws got on the board early against Pleasant Hill. Sam Quinn took a pass from Kevin Marquardt and broke away to score just five minutes into the contest. At the half Sisters held a 1-0 lead.

At the 65-minute mark, Tim Hernandez beat the defenders up the sidelines and passed to Marquardt, who put a well-placed shot into the left corner of the net for Sisters' second and final goal of the contest.

"We're doing well so far," said player Dirk Van der Velde. "Last year we didn't win even one away game and so far we've already won three on the road. Today we brought good energy and had a lot of shots on goal and our defense did a great job of keeping a clean sheet."

Coach Rob Jensen praised the play of forward Scott Everson and stopper Tanner Smith.

"Scott played well and with a lot of energy," the coach said. "He pressured the defense and made them make mistakes. Tanner also played well. He was timing the ball and winning it in the air and to our players' feet so we could continue to attack."

On Wednesday, the Outlaws finished with a 0-0 tie against Marist. Sisters played their hearts out, and the entire team stepped up their level of play in the intense battle. The Outlaws had numerous opportunities to win the contest but were satisfied with the tie.

"The tie is as good as a win," said Jensen. "We can always expect a good game every time we play Marist. They're a team with experience who went far into the playoffs last year."

Keeper Drew Harrison stepped up his game and had a big night in the goal.

"Drew made all the right decisions and had some huge saves for us," said Jensen. "He's gaining confidence and getting better and better on the field."

Jensen also noted the play of stopper Tanner Smith and defensive player Jake Laskin.

"Tanner was key for us," said Jensen. "He did a great job of pushing up and controlling the ball and winning it in the air. And Jake locked down on defense and shut down their sides."

In last week's action, Tuesday, September 22, the Outlaws lost 5-4 at home against Madras.

The Outlaws will host Cottage Grove at home on October 7.