Mount Washington Valley Soccer Club kicks into season

By John Skelton

Last Sunday close to 300 soccer players saw first action of the spring with Mount Washington Valley Soccer Club teams and programs. The ever-popular Recreation and Valley Leagues opened under gray skies and mild temperatures: perfect soccer weather. The eight teams of U-6 players learned "Boss of the Balls" as they build toward 3 v 3 games. The U-8 division, including many returning veterans, all got scrimmages in, toward their opening 4 v 4 games this Sunday. Six U10 teams scrimmaged 6 v 6 and open League play this week, as did four U12 teams, who have progressed to 8 v 8. Among travel teams, the U18 Boys kicked off the day with a noontime domination of a visiting Lakes Region team, a 5-1 victory. Mike Marrone, with two goals, Teo Jackson, Elliott Franke and Jamie Skelton all found the back of the net. With an ealier 2-2 tie in which Anthony Marrone scored two, the team is now 1-0-1. The U18 Girls followed with a 0-2 loss to Viperz, a strong opponent. Coach Susan Else cited Goalie Corin Hall and back Amanda Tulip for solid all-around games. Meghan Moore created some dangerous opportunities on attack in the first half. The U14 Girls showed solid organization and cohesion in their first outdoor effort, a 2-0 league victory at Kittery. Cozie Mitchell and Kaycee Smith netted goals. Kathleen Low created dangerous attacks from the left flank all afternoon and goalie Jessica George had a fairly quiet defensive area in earning the shutout. This Saturday, four more travel teams see first game action, after long training time in gyms and a few outdoor sessions. The U14 Boys travel to archrival Rochester YSA, and have a Sunday 1:30 match at Brett School. The U10 Co-ed team, and U12 Boys and Girls teams play at the Gorham (Maine) May Madness tournament on Saturday. U18 Boys are at KHS for a Sunday noon kickoff.