Beth Tfiloh vs. Pikesville: A Soccer Rivalry

By: Michael M. ‘16
Several months away from the season, training during the grueling August heat and lacking last year’s seniors, the Boys’ Varsity Soccer team faced an uphill journey at the start of this year. First came the training for two hours, twice a day. Then, the running of hill after hill and sprint after sprint, leaving all one could give on the field. But despite the growth they collectively experienced as a result of this effort, the issue of team cohesiveness still loomed over the squad. Still hopeful, however, the goal-scoring machine, Justin H. ’16, stated that “we’ve gotten off to a slow start, mainly because we have a lot of new players in the mix, But now we’re starting to work together. After this season, no team will think of us as an easy team [to defeat].” The morale remained high as preseason neared its end and our new team, filled with potential and the will to win, looked forward to an auspicious start.

Then, on September 3rd, the whistle blew and the Boys’ Varsity Soccer season officially kicked off. The homecoming match against the Pikesville Panthers proved to be a contest of epic proportions. The Warriors took the field to the delight of a large crowd who had come to watch the teams battle.

As the first half went on, senior Matt K. struck a beautiful goal to keep the Warriors even at 1-1 with Pikesville. The Warriors controlled possession well and fought for every fifty-fifty ball. Their desire to win and to exert every effort to succeed grew even more apparent. As a hard fought first half ended, the Warriors trailed, but hope was not lost. But as the second half kicked off, Pikesville tacked on another goal to solidify their lead. Still refusing to quit, Matt K. ’15 led the charge for the Warriors by scoring yet another goal. The opportunity for victory was suddenly in reach again. However, despite BT’s hard work, Pikesville took the victory 5-2 as the final whistle blew. Even though they lost this game, the Warriors were applauded by both the crowd and the Pikesville team for their intense gameplay and nonstop effort.

At the end of the game, spectators commented not only on the thrilling game but also on the entertaining fan experience. With Beth Tfiloh serving snow cones and popcorn to all the fans and even including a special surprise of a giant inflatable red chair, the audience, as Yitzi T. ‘16 said, “Enjoyed the game very much and loved” the experience of cheering on their team. Despite initial loss, the Warriors are destined for greatness this year and are sure to provide their fans with all the entertainment anyone could ask.