Generals soccer battles in tournament

The Shafter High School varsity boys and girls soccer teams last week competed in the Miramonte Lions Soccer Tournament at Miramonte High School in Bakersfield.

The girls' team played four games, losing 0-2 to Ridgeview High School and 0-5 to Garces in their first two matches, finishing third in their bracket and earning a spot in the consolation division. They then went on to defeat Foothill, 2-0, and in their final match, they played Golden Valley High. After a 0-0 tie in regular time, the game went to penalty kicks, where the girls won, 4-1, taking first place in the consolation bracket.

"The girls worked very hard to earn this plaque as they wrapped up the pre-season," Head Coach and girls soccer program director Jonathan Tellez said, "Now, they'll prepare for the South Sequoia League. The Generals are considered contenders to win the South Sequoia League, having finished 2nd place the past five years. Hopefully, they will break through that this year."

The boys' team played four games, securing victories over North High, 2-1, and Delano High, 5-0, but falling 1-0 to Frontier High. In the consolation championship game, the boys ended regular time tied 2-2 against Highland High. The match went to penalty kicks, where the Generals triumphed 5-4, claiming the consolation championship and finishing in 3rd place.

"We have a very young team. They are learning and working hard to improve. This tournament was a good way to show our weaknesses and strengths," noted Head Coach Jorge Maldonado, who has coached the SHS boys soccer team for over 30 years.