For the first time in program history, Taft travelled to Worcester, MA to take on a talented Worcester Academy team. The Big Red knew it would have to mitigate their mistakes playing at a new location, on a big field, on turf, against experienced players. Unfortunately, Big Red mistakes were converted into Hilltopper goals and Taft would fall on the day. Taft would find a lot of offensive action early in the match and they were able to sustain pressure early with fresh legs. The Big Red start the scoring on the day. Patience Kum ’21 would have a deflection land with her right on the top of the box. Kum would hit a beautiful shot curling to the far post to put Taft up 1-0. The lead would not last long, unfortunately, and the hosts answered Taft’s goal less than 90 seconds later. The first half saw a lot of good play for both teams but Taft would cede a second goal before 20 minutes were gone in the half. The half would end 1-2 with Taft having enough offensive opportunities to hang but too many giveaways on offense to prevent a lot of goal scoring opportunities. The second half saw more of Taft’s mistakes punished by Worcester without enough goal-scoring opportunities to make up the difference on the scoreboard. Taft played hard through the last whistle but without the attention to detail needed to beat a good team, Taft let Worcester score 6 straight goals after they took the 1-0 lead. The game would end 1-6 to Worcester with Taft learning a very important lesson about precision. Effort is not limited to physical demands, as Taft worked extremely hard physically. However, mental demands were not met on the day and too many unsupported players clearing the ball, or missed marks, or two players marking one led to opportunities that the Taft could not withstand. Taft will be back at home for a Wednesday tilt against Northfield Mount Hermon. NMH is one of the best teams playing in the West right now and will provide a great and immediate opportunity for Taft to take the lessons from this game and apply them to another good team. Kickoff will be at 3:15.