By: Karine Chan

On Friday, January 25th, the Mills Boys Varsity Soccer team played against San Mateo on our home field. The final score was 1-2, a close win for San Mateo.

After a great amount of the ball being knocked back and forth between the teams, our very own Justin Lauer (#7) found the back of the net with the first goal of the game. He started off in San Mateo’s territory and carried the ball all the way across the field with his teammates guarding his sides. This triumphant goal occurred during the first half of the game and was followed by many cheers and pats on the back from his teammates. Unfortunately, this was the only goal of the game made by the Vikings. Coach Craig Wiard sent an appreciating nod towards Captain Yuma Miyake (#10), praising him for his great vision, excellent distribution, and great skill with the ball. Miyake played a great game along with his fellow Vikings, constantly encouraging his teammates despite the scoreline. During most of the second half, our Vikings stayed in attacking third, controlling San Mateo on their side of the field, but the Vikings were unable to end their strategic plays with a finishing touch to score. Mills put up a good fight but sadly, San Mateo scored a total of two goals throughout this game, sneaking in both during the second half during breakaway moments.

This is Mills’ first loss against San Mateo, having played them once earlier this season. In the first game, Mills tied with score San Mateo. Great job Vikings, we’ll get them next time. The Thunderbolt wishes the team good luck as they head into their final games before CCS Championships!