By Hannah Helbert

The Patrick County High School boys’ varsity soccer team snapped its three game losing streak last Wednesday against Floyd County High School. PCHS won 4-1.

Gonzalo Vargas had a hat trick for the Cougars, scoring three goals. Brayan Hernandez scored one. With the exception of a few mental errors, the Cougars had a dominating performance by controlling the ball a majority of the game.

“We had some good shots but Floyd’s keeper made some good saves tonight,” said Head Coach Oscar Tejeda of the 34 shots the Cougars had. The goal that would seal Gonzalo’s hat trick performance would come from a foul by the Floyd keeper; he received on a breakaway play in the second half. This foul would result in a red card for the Buffaloes.

Gonzalo took his free kick just outside the box and had a perfect shot, hitting the side net.

“I think we played really good at times and took advantage when we could, but we had some mental errors that we will fix,” Tejeda said of the team.

He continued, “I also decided to rest four key players tonight that are trying to recover from the bumps and bruises they have. Hopefully they will be rested and close to 100% to take on the rest of the season healthier. After losing three games last week it was nice to bring our record back above .500.”

The Cougars then traveled to Martinsville on Friday, April 20. The

Cougars were unable to defeat the Bulldogs and lost 1-0.

The Bulldogs came out strong but the Cougars stood strong, holding them scoreless in the first half. In the 27th minute of the first half a player from each team were ejected because of an altercation.

Then Bulldogs would score in the second half and would win the game. “We played a good hard match, it just wasn’t enough for tonight,” said Tejeda.

The Cougars are currently 5-5 in the season and will play at home on April 24. PCHS will take on the Warriors from Magna Vista High School. Game time is 7 p.m.