The Taft Rhinos hosted the Miss Porter’s school Fighting Daisies for the last of a two game home stand. The Rhinos came out strong and played their brand of possession soccer to create solid scoring chances. Their efforts paid off as Sam Ouellette was able to put one into the back of the net from just inside the 18 yard box. The possession stayed even, but as the half ran deep, the Fighting Daisies started earning more of the possession and out shot the Rhinos. The hard working keeper Sarah Elkas kept her sheet clean in the first half with 7 saves. The defense of Leigh Root, Whitney Bartol, Cierra Ouellette, and Keeley Brooks kept the chances of the away team less than productive. The second half saw renewed resolve from Miss Porter’s to get pressure on Taft’s goal. The result was a game tying goal to notch the score at 1 to 1. It took a team effort to counter this potent attack and the midfield of Muffin Prakittiphoom, Kate Vermylen, Sam Ouellette and Hollen Spain was able to build up and earn some crosses into the attacking half. Margo Kahler helped cross the ball in from the right hand side and Lauren Walsh was able to crash in and finish to regain the lead. The Fighting Daisies kept the pressure high and keeper Sarah Elkas kept making great play after great play to keep the lead in the hands of the Rhinos. With about a minute to play in the game, Miss Porter’s earned a corner. It looked like Taft was able to clear the ball out of danger, but the ref saw it different rewarding a handball and penalty kick to the Daisies. Keeper Sarah Elkas guessed right, but was unable to make the stop on a true quality shot. The Rhinos seemed energized by the unfortunate call against them and they pressed high looking for the win as time ran out. This team should be proud of what they are accomplishing. They are so close to breaking out and taking charge versus some talented opponents like this strong one from Farmington CT. The Rhinos look forward to playing at Choate on Saturday.