A strong Deerfield side arrived at Taft unbeaten this season with some impressive results under their belt. Despite this, Taft immediately put up a good fight against their more experienced opponents. To make matters tougher, conditions were cold and drizzly with the ball consistently skidding off the surface which ensured that defenders on both sides of the field needed to maintain concentration. While both teams traded blows, Deerfield eventually had the best opportunity to score when Taft were adjudged to have committed a foul in the box. The resulting penalty, however, was saved by goalie Nika Yemets, and she prevented any opportunity for a follow-up by expertly holding on to the ball. Minutes later Taft were back on the attack with some patient build-up in the midfield before Ellie Taylor was released and sped up to a position deep in Deerfield’s half. Though everyone assumed Taylor would pass back she, instead, took a shot at goal and it curled deliciously over the head of the Deerfield goalie and into the back of the net. A truly beautiful finish! In the moments that followed the goal Taft lost a bit of composure but, though Deerfield was in the ascendency, Taft managed to keep them out. The second half was a back-and-forth affair until a moment of physical strength from Deerfield saw them level the scores. As the game continued, Taft were able to break down the Deerfield attacks with some strong defensive work. Evangeline Webb and Emma Weitzel, in particular, made a couple of noteworthy interceptions between them. But Taft also gave as good as they got and were always a threat through Lane Childs, Georgia Lowenberg, Clarisse Moucha and Liv Samuelson. Unfortunately, with just seven minutes to go, Taft conceded another penalty. This time, Deerfield made no mistake. Though Taft tried to equalize they were unable to find the net before time ran out and the game ended 1-2 to Deerfield. Special mention must be made to Yemets for an outstanding game with her safe pair of hands and numerous brave rush-outs. But it was also a great team effort in which every girl played a part in pushing a very good Deerfield side all the way. The coaches are proud of their young team and this was a game that proved to be another progression in their development. Thank you to the fans and family who braved the rain and came out to support the team.