The Taft Rhinos played their home opener today versus the Avon Winged-Beavers on a perfect day for a football match. The Rhinos started with good energy with the midfield players Oliver Lefkowitz, Brenden Staines and Noah Cinel pressing well and creating havoc for the visiting side. The attacking pressure and possession tilted toward the home team who was able to earn some quality shots. James Cooper was able to open the scoring in the 30th minute of play as he picked up a ball from Kotaro Wato. Six minutes later Korato was played a ball and he got past the last defender who fouled him resulting in a penalty kick which Kotaro finished with a firm strike to the side netting. The defensive play of the squad was solid in the first half allowing only a couple of shots against. The second half saw a bit more equal possession and more quality chances for the Winged Beavers. Fullback Kaiel Casserly cleared a couple off the line to keep the sheet clean. Center backs Andrew Jaroch and Nero Maung helped steady the defense with the help of Cayden Van Dolah and Owen Wyman. The Taft keeper was busier in the second half, but Jack Eastman and Julian Prentice combined for the clean sheet on 8 saves. The Rhinos have a good weekend ahead to recover with a free Monday. The boys look forward to hosting Deerfield on Wednesday. Go Big Red