The Sunshine Coast Eagles soccer team returns to the field for their fifth season, now being the most senior Sunshine Coast Youth Soccer Association (SCYSA) team at U17. The team welcomes players Jacob Bromley, Nicholas Clarke, and Tai Loverock who are new to the artificial turf this season, and also welcomes Riely O’Sullivan and his family to the Sunshine Coast as well as to SCYSA.
Coming off a loss for the first game of the season, the Eagles responded with an overwhelmingly strong performance that was too much to handle for VAFC Lightning. Having had a bye between games, the Eagles put in four solid practices to regroup and focus on team play. All came to fruition at Vancouver Technical School Turf on Saturday, Sept. 22.
Every member of the team played exceptionally well with standout performances by defenders Isaiah Hill, Nelson MacKenzie and Bryan Rono. Dominating the centre pitch was Kordell Johnson, Alex Piepjohn and new team mate Jacob Bromley. Goalkeeper Jake Maclean continues solidly amazing in his performance as goalie and directing the team with his perspective from goal.
Beautiful inter-passing through the park set up the team’s goals. The Eagles started off the scoring with a header assist from Alex Piepjohn to Braden Zayshley’s eager foot. The second goal came from Alex Piepjohn with a well-earned free kick from 25 yards, ending the first half with a 2-0 score.
VAFC Lightning returned enthusiastically to the turf earning their first goal on a breakaway, managing to finally elude the Eagles goalkeeper. All Eagles responded quickly, resulting with Derek Ewen crossing from the sidelines to Gavin Lynagh’s golden foot, making the score 3-1.
The game was a well-fought, exciting battle to the end with the Eagles holding their 3-1 lead. In usual good Eagles sportsmanship, the boys were shaking hands and engaging with their opponents as they left the field victorious.
The Eagles’ next game is on Saturday, Sept. 29 at Kinnikinnick lower field with a 1:30 p.m. kickoff.
– Submitted by Carol McGuire
