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'Girls did a great job'
Jen Bennett was well aware that Miss Porters was a step up in competition.
After blowing through the first seven games of the season (outscoring opponents 69-3 along the way), Bennett, the Putnam Science Academy girls’ soccer coach, was looking for a chance to play someone more on her team’s level.
Miss Porters obliged in more ways than one.
The prep school from Farmington handed the Mustangs their first loss of the season Nov. 6, 8-3. Bennett said the score wasn’t necessarily indicative of how the team played, though.
“We came in knowing Miss Porters was a great team and it would be a great learning experience for us,” she said. “It was just that. We didn’t get the result we wanted, but we got a lot of great things out of this game. I think my girls did a really great job.”
Bennett was especially pleased with the play of back Thandeka Siboda, calling her the game’s MVP.
“She was fantastic,” Bennett said. “I was so proud of her. She was under pressure a lot and handled it like a pro. She was clearing balls out of the 18 using her body, her head, whatever she had to do, she did to clear it. She held her line and pulled them offsides a bunch of times. I was just so pleased with her. She really stood out.” PSA got goals from Claudia Paz, Tais Mota and Leticia Sousa.
The boys’ varsity team fared better last week, winning its lone game, 7-2 over Winchendon on the road. The Mustangs (8-3-1) got a hat trick from Josue De Leon and single goals from Romulo Pinheiro, Jaime Mendo, Victor Reis, and Luca Almeida.
“We played really well,” said coach Ivan Damulira. “We were united, moved the ball together all over the field. This was their best game of the season.”
Damulira also noted the growth of back Jekai Eve, who has solidified his place on the team.
“He started off as one of our weakest players at the start of the season and now he has become a key player,” he said. “He has been wonderful in the central defense for us. The whole team recognizes this. I’m very proud of him.”
PSA’s boys’ prep soccer did not play this week.
Stephen Nalbandian
Sports Information Director
Putnam Science Academy
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