The Pirate Soccer team traveled to Corydon for their conference opener Tuesday evening, and second of a three in a row stretch this week.  “Tonight, we lost our first game of the season, against Corydon 5-1, and they proved to be a very strong team”, commented Pirate Coach Christian Martinez.  The Pirates scored an early goal at the 1 minute mark by Sergio Bolanos with an assist from Bryce Wray.  “I got the impression that the Pirates became overconfident at that point.  We lost our positions in the field, allowing Corydon to win”, explained Coach Martinez.  Corydon tacted on two more goals in the first half to take a 3-1 lead to halftime.

“During half time, we had our normal discussion about the errors made in the first half and how to improve in the second half.  However, it just didn’t work out this time.  We continued to make the same errors, which cost us two more goals”, stated Coach Martinez.

After a post-game discussion with the team, “I feel they understand the areas that were not as strong tonight and know what they can do to improve.  I continue to be proud of this group and there was a lesson to be learned tonight. You win some, and you lose some.  I will never be disappointed when they try so hard”, Coach concluded.

The night ended with the Pirates taking 12 shots, which 6 were on goal with Corydon taking 20 shots, with 11 on goal. Our goalie Matt Parrella had 6 saves and 5 allowed.

Next matchup is:  Wednesday vs. Southern High School

Traveling to Henryville for a non-conference match Monday kicked off a busy week for Pirate Soccer; as they travel to Corydon tonight (Tuesday) for a big conference contest, then host Louisville Southern on Wednesday.  During the first half, Charlestown (2-0) led the game by maintaining possession of the ball and by being aggressive, while still playing clean.  Anthony Carey scored the first Pirate goal of the night at the 22 minute mark with an assist by Gryphon Barding.  Unfortunately, a mistake in defense allowed Henryville to score and tie the game 1-1 at the break.

At half time, the Charlestown players and Coach Martinez discussed the mistakes that were made during the first half.  The Pirates went into the remainder of the game with a better and more secure way to play.  “Being a new coach with a fresh set of eyes for high school soccer, I must say that Henryville was a difficult team to play against.  They have great skills, are appropriately aggressive, and were especially strong while playing at their home field”, commented Charlestown Head Coach Christian Martinez.

During the second half, the Pirates were still able to maintain possession of the ball, but had more opportunity to take more shots.  Charlestown’s second goal, and ultimate game winner, came from Sergio Bolanos at the 22 minute mark with an assist from Bryson Andasol.

“I am very pleased with the outcome, of course.  However, I do want to note that both teams played hard and played well.  I especially want to acknowledge the fact that my boys never game up and kept a positive attitude throughout the game.  It is our second victory for this fresh season and I am very proud of the teamwork I have witnessed during these first couple of games”, concluded Coach Martinez.

Charlestown recorded 12 shots, 5 on goal, for two goals on the evening; while Pirate Goalie Matt Parrella finished with four saves and allowing only score.