Patriots lose heartbreaker to Columbus

Before the opening whistle even blew in their state playoff game against Columbus, the Sandy Creek varsity boys soccer team had a successful season. They won the school’s first ever region soccer title and had won a state playoff game. They also knew that if they kept winning, they would remain at home the whole way.

The Columbus Blue Devils opened the game with the momentum and moved the ball exceptionally well, but Sandy Creek’s defense, led in part by Kendall Davidson and goalkeeper Jose Anaya, held firm. The Patriots countered Columbus’ offense and broke through with just over 18 minutes left when Omar Raslan connected on a goal.

Sandy Creek scored again four minutes later when Christopher Avery scored off of a corner kick. Columbus would not give up though and got a goal back with eight minutes left in the first half. They had several more opportunities stopped by amazing defense, saves from Anaya and once from the goalpost.

The second half was just as intense as the Patriots tried to hold off the Blue Devils’ attack. Columbus tied the game 15 minutes in to the second half but Sandy Creek stepped up, determined to not give away the momentum. With just over 15 minutes left, Elante Thomas streaked past a defender on the right side of the field and fired a shot past the keeper to give Sandy Creek the lead once again. The Patriots defense tried to keep Columbus away from the net and any good opportunities but the Blue Devils snuck one in with around six minutes left. Both teams stormed up and down the field in the remaining time, trying to find a way to seal the win.

The teams were deadlocked at the end of regulation and through the first overtime period. With 14 second remaining in the second overtime and a shootout looming, Columbus got too close to the net and put a rebound past Anaya for the winning goal.
Sandy Creek head coach Keelan Seabolt was proud of his team’s effort and accomplishments this season. The team will return several key players next year and Seabolt hopes to build on the success of this season.