Tough Loss to Pomfret

Summary: The Martlets were determined to win the game as soon as they stepped on the field. However, this was an unknown field, which had its own set of challenges. The whistle blew, and Pomfret took possession of the ball right away. Every time Westminster tried to score, they were surrounded by half the Pomfret team; their defense was strong, and did not let any balls go through. With just one striker, Pomfret scored in the first five minutes, as the player made her way to the ball, with the midfield behind her, and got past the defense line, scoring the game's first goal. After that, Westminster was determined not to let any balls get through. Still trying to figure out the opponent's strategy, captain Westie Strawbridgee '24 made effective passes from the midfield to the strikers and ran to beat the opponent to every ball she could. However, Pomfret's familiarity with the field gave them the upper hand, and after 10 minutes, Westminster was down 2-0. The defense worked hard not to let any more balls through until the first half was over. During the second half, Westminster's determination to accelerate the game's pace was clear; every minute counted. The players made passes, often and accurately, to get the ball through the five-player defense line that Pomfret was playing with. Defense Abbey Cirelliy's dedication in '27 was evident as she ran back and forth to defend her side of the field but did not stop when she had the opportunity to move up and play offense. With 14 minutes left on the clock, striker Schuyler Groves '26 scored a goal, giving the whole team hope to tie. After that, the game became more intense, showing Westminster's grit. Striker Piper Lundin '26 got as many balls as possible, but getting past the defense line was challenging. The players kept running and using every minute wisely. With 40 seconds left of the game, striker Colby Smith '24 made a shot on goal, which the goalie saved. With that, the game was over, showing Westminster the importance of strategy. Even though they took their first loss, the Marltets left the field gracefully, having given their best on the field.